The Digester
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FAA probes close call between United 737 and Army Black Hawk near John Wayne Airport

A United Boeing 737-800 and a California Army National Guard Black Hawk came into close vertical proximity during final approach to John Wayne Airport, prompting an FAA investigation into the incident and possible policy breach.

Mar 26th 2026 ยท United States

Insights

  • The incident occurred Tuesday at 8:40 pm during the United Boeing 737-800's final approach to John Wayne Airport.
  • Tracking data showed the aircraft were about 160 metres or 525 feet apart vertically.
  • The FAA is investigating whether the encounter violated its policy banning visual separation for helicopters near major airports.
  • The California Army National Guard said the Black Hawk was returning along an established Visual Flight Rules route after routine training and was in contact with air traffic control.
  • United said pilots were warned by ATC, saw the helicopter, responded to a cockpit alert, leveled the jet, and landed safely.

Sources