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JetBlue Near-Miss With U.S. Air Force Tanker Reported

PUBLISHED Dec 14, 2025, 2:42 PM ET

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JetBlue Near-Miss With U.S. Air Force Tanker Reported

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Center 100%

Sources: 7

Washington — A JetBlue flight from Curaçao halted its climb Friday to avoid colliding with a U.S. Air Force refuelling tanker, the pilot said in recorded air traffic communications. The pilot reported the tanker crossed directly in the aircraft's flight path at the same altitude and was within two to five miles, and complained the military plane lacked an active transponder. U.S. Southern Command acknowledged reviewing the reports while JetBlue said it notified authorities and prioritizes safety. The incident occurred amid increased U.S. military operations near Venezuela. No injuries were reported on board. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Mahnoor A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

U.S. increases Caribbean patrols and aerial operations prior to incident.
JetBlue Flight 1112 departs Curaçao heading to JFK on Friday.
Pilot reports tanker crossed directly in flight path within two to five miles.
LiveATC recording of pilot–ATC exchange becomes available and is reported.
U.S. Southern Command states it is reviewing the matter; JetBlue notifies authorities.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

U.S. military and regional law-enforcement agencies may gain operational intelligence and justification for intensified patrols and interdiction activities in the Caribbean.

Who Impacted

Passengers aboard the JetBlue flight faced immediate safety risk and potential trauma, while diplomatic tensions and scrutiny of military flight procedures could increase near Venezuela.