Near-Collision Averted at LaGuardia: Two Planes Come Perilously Close

Close Call Averted at LaGuardia Airport: Two Planes Nearly Collide LaGuardia Airport experienced a near-disaster on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, when two passenger planes came perilously close to colliding on the runway. American Eagle flight 4736, operated by Republic Airways, received clearance for takeoff from air traffic control, but the clearance was abruptly rescinded seconds later. The reason? United Airlines flight 2657 was taxiing on the same runway. "Brickyard 4736, stop!" the air traffic controller urgently instructed, according to audio recordings obtained by LiveATC.net. The American Eagle pilot responded, "Brickyard 4736, stop rejected, takeoff 13." The near-miss was narrowly avoided when the American Eagle pilot aborted takeoff. Data from Flightradar24 shows the planes were a mere 0.27 miles apart at their closest point. The incident highlights the critical role of air traffic control and the inherent risks in air travel. The FAA has been installing new runway safety technology, but this close call underscores the need for continued vigilance and improvements in safety protocols. The FAA's statement regarding the incident is awaited. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures in air travel.