CHICAGO- A preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggests that sun glare may have contributed to a close call between a Flexjet plane and a Southwest Airlines (WN) flight at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in February 2025.
The incident occurred when the Flexjet aircraft crossed an active runway as the Southwest flight was approaching for landing, prompting the Southwest crew to perform a go-around.
Photo: Aero Icarus | FlickrSouthwest Flexjet Close Call Due to Sun Glare
The near-miss is part of a series of recent aviation incidents under investigation. While no injuries were reported, the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are conducting separate inquiries to determine contributing factors and potential safety improvements.
The NTSB report indicates that the Flexjet crew experienced visibility issues due to sun glare, which may have led to confusion about their exact location on the airfield.
Crew members stated that the sun impeded their visibility from the right side of the aircraft, making it difficult to discern runway markings and hold short lines.
Investigators noted that the Flexjet crew failed to recognize runway 13R/31L as an active runway, mistaking it for a taxiway due to its similar width.
As they approached the runway intersection, they looked in both directions but did not observe the incoming Southwest flight.
The report also highlights that as the Flexjet aircraft neared the hold short line for runway 31C, air traffic control (ATC) issued a clear instruction for them to stop.
However, the crew did not acknowledge the directive and proceeded to cross the runway. The Southwest flight, which was on final approach, had to abort its landing and passed approximately 250 feet above the Flexjet plane.
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 confirms the altitude separation during the go-around maneuver.
While the immediate risk of collision was avoided, the incident underscores the critical importance of clear communication and situational awareness in aviation operations.
Photo: Southwest Airlines Ongoing Investigations
Flexjet responded to the incident by reaffirming its commitment to safety, stating that it adheres to the highest standards and is conducting its own internal review.
The company assured that any necessary corrective measures would be implemented. The NTSB’s investigation remains ongoing, with a final report expected within one to two years.
The FAA is also conducting a separate review to assess regulatory compliance and potential safety improvements to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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