JetBlue Pilot Stops Climb After US Air Force Tanker Crosses Path Near Venezuela

JetBlue pilot halted the climb of Flight 1112 after a U.S. Air Force refueling tanker crossed the aircraft’s path. The incident occurred just off the coast of Venezuela, as the jet headed for New York’s JFK.

Incident Details

JetBlue Flight 1112, originating from Curaçao, was climbing when the tanker appeared within a few miles. The pilot recorded a conversation with air‑traffic control, saying, “We almost had a midair collision up here. They passed directly in our flight path. … They don’t have their transponder turned on, it’s outrageous.” The tanker later entered Venezuelan airspace.

Pilot’s Account

The pilot added, “We just had traffic pass directly in front of us within 5 miles of us — maybe 2 or 3 miles — but it was an air‑to‑air refueler from the United States Air Force and he was at our altitude. We had to stop our climb.”

JetBlue Response

JetBlue spokesman Derek Dombrowski said the airline had reported the event to federal authorities and would cooperate with any investigation. He noted, “Our crewmembers are trained on proper procedures for various flight situations, and we appreciate our crew for promptly reporting this situation to our leadership team.”

Regulatory Context

The Federal Aviation Administration issued a warning last month urging U.S. aircraft to exercise caution in Venezuelan airspace because of escalating security concerns and increased military activity. The Pentagon directed the Associated Press to the Air Force for comment; the Air Force has not yet responded.

Key Takeaways

• A JetBlue flight halted its climb after a U.S. tanker crossed its path near Venezuela.
• The tanker had no transponder active, prompting the pilot’s warning.
• JetBlue has filed a report and will aid the investigation.

The incident highlights growing military operations in the Caribbean and the FAA’s cautionary stance toward Venezuelan airspace.