JetBlue A320 Skirts Collision with USAF Tanker in Caribbean Skies

JetBlue Airways recently experienced a tense moment when one of its flights departing from the Caribbean island of Curaçao narrowly avoided a midair collision with a US Air Force refueling tanker shortly after takeoff.

The incident unfolded on December 12, 2025, involving a JetBlue Airbus A320-232, designated as flight B61112. This flight was making its way from Curaçao International Airport (CUR) in Willemstad to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

Flight Details and Circumstances

According to Flightradar24, flight B61112 took off from Curaçao at 20:38 local time. The journey was expected to take approximately four hours and 23 minutes, covering a distance of about 3,188 kilometers.

As the aircraft began its ascent and approached an altitude of 34,000 feet, the crew opted to take evasive action to maintain a safe distance from a USAF KC-135R tanker that was also flying at the same altitude. This quick decision allowed the JetBlue flight to continue safely toward JFK Airport.

Pilot’s Remarks on the Incident

A recording of the pilot’s conversation with air traffic control highlighted the alarming nature of the close call. “We almost had a midair collision up here,” the JetBlue pilot stated, expressing concern over the tanker not having its transponder activated.

The pilot noted that the military tanker passed directly in front of the JetBlue aircraft, only two to three miles away, before continuing in the direction of Venezuelan airspace. Reports indicated that the tanker was involved in Operation Southern Spear, a U.S. counter-narcotics mission within the Caribbean, which includes strikes and surveillance activities from both land and air.

JetBlue’s Response

Following the encounter, JetBlue spokesperson Derek Dombrowski commented on the crew’s actions. “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,” he said.

Dombrowski also confirmed that JetBlue has notified federal authorities about the incident and will cooperate fully with any ensuing investigations.

Regulatory Concerns and Airspace Warnings

In November 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued warnings to pilots about the increasing security risks associated with Venezuelan airspace. This advisory emphasized potential dangers to aircraft at all altitudes and stages of flight, even on the ground.

Officials noted that the aim of this initiative is to apply greater pressure on the administration of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who the U.S. has consistently accused of engaging in narcotics trafficking and destabilizing activities within the region.

How do you think airlines and authorities can better ensure the safety of flights in such high-risk areas?