• A JetBlue flight from Curaçao halted its ascent to avoid a collision with a U.S. Air Force tanker.
• The pilot reported the military aircraft did not have its transponder activated, complicating air traffic control efforts.
• This incident comes amid heightened U.S. military activity in the Caribbean aimed at countering Venezuelan influence.

A JetBlue flight from Curaçao narrowly avoided a "midair collision" with a U.S. Air Force refueling tanker while climbing after takeoff last Friday. The pilot reported the military plane crossed directly in their flight path, urging immediate action to prevent a potential disaster, stating, "We almost had a midair collision up here," according to recordings shared with air traffic control. The incident led to significant concern, as the military aircraft reportedly did not have its transponder activated, complicating tracking efforts, according to CBS News, Los Angeles Times, and Al Jazeera.

The incident involved JetBlue Flight 1112, which was en route to New York City’s JFK airport. Following the event, Derek Dombrowski, a spokesperson for JetBlue, stated that the incident had been reported to federal authorities, and the airline will participate in any investigation. He emphasized the crew's training in responding to such situations, affirming a commitment to safety, as noted by ABC News and India Times.

This incident occurs amid increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean aimed at combating drug smuggling and exerting pressure on Venezuela's government. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had previously issued warnings for aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace due to a "worsening security situation," suggesting operators exercise heightened caution, as reported by CBS News and Los Angeles Times.