the FAA reported that an American Airlines regional jet nearly collided with an Air Canada jet at JFK Airport on Monday afternoon. The incident unfolded at approximately 2:35 PM when the American Airlines flight, operating as Republic Airways Flight 4464, strayed off its intended path and came dangerously close to Jazz Aviation Flight 554, the Air Canada flight originating from Toronto.

The FAA stated that following alerts from their onboard collision avoidance systems, both crews took swift evasive action. Details revealed that the two aircraft came within about 106.68 meters vertically and 997.79 meters horizontally of each other. During the incident, air traffic control issued urgent commands, directing the Air Canada crew to climb to 3,000 feet, while the American Airlines crew acknowledged the situation and initiated a go-around.

Audio recordings highlighted the tension of the moment, with alarms sounding in the cockpit. A controller urgently informed the Air Canada pilot, "Jazz 554, climb and maintain 3,000 feet," to which the pilot complied. The American Airlines flight also confirmed the need to correct its path, stating that they would initiate a go-around.

Both flights, equipped with Embraer ERJ 175 jets, successfully landed without further issues. Jazz Aviation issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to safety and the training of their crews to handle operational challenges effectively.

This near miss is reportedly the second such incident within a week, raising concerns about air traffic control safety and the increasing pressures faced by controllers, exacerbated by ongoing staffing shortages. The FAA's investigation into this alarming incident is currently underway, focusing on why the American Airlines jet deviated from its assigned course.