Military, Civilian Aircraft Involved In The Incident

A US Airways commuter plane and a Navy E2 Hawkeye came within about a mile of colliding on February 9th, eliciting a response from the FAA.

The two airplanes closed to within a mile of each other before the US Airways aircraft reportedly made a quick turn to avoid the collision, according to a report appearing on television station WVEC.

The FAA issued a statement Monday, saying "As a result of the team's review, the FAA has taken steps to improve some procedures, and streamline coordination between tower and radar controllers.  The military procedure in use when the incident occurred still is suspended."

The civilian controller involved was removed from operational duties after it was revealed that the civilian pilot was not alerted that there was another plane in the vicinity. He received "skill enhancement training" and has been returned to duty status.

The FAA says the confusion arose when two controllers in different towers were communicating with both aircraft. The agency said the civilian approach controller should have been the sole point of contact for both airplanes.

FMI: www.faa.gov