Just after midnight near Phoenix on 14 August 2026, a pair of American Airlines flights using the same call sign were on the same frequency at the same time, creating confusion and the potential for an accident.
Timeline
Just after midnight near Phoenix on 14 August 2026, a pair of American Airlines flights using the same call sign were on the same frequency at the same time, creating confusion and the potential for an accident.
1.
Development of the situation
American Airlines 2482 arriving in Phoenix was descending through 11,000 feet while a separate American 2482 departing Phoenix was climbing toward 9,000 feet when pilots and air traffic control realized both flights were using the same call sign.
2.
Resolution or outcome described in the account
Upon realizing the possible conflict, ATC instructed both flights to maintain safe altitudes and began using clear, distinguishing phraseology for each aircraft — addressing one as "American 2482 on approach" and the other as "American 2482 on departure." The aircraft crossed paths without incident, and both continued to their destinations for safe landings.
3.
Accident Facts
- Category
- Midair / Near miss
- Reconstruction
- 2:29
American Airlines 2482 arriving in Phoenix was descending through 11,000 feet while a separate American 2482 departing Phoenix was climbing toward 9,000 feet when pilots and air traffic control realized both flights were using the same call sign.
Upon realizing the possible conflict, ATC instructed both flights to maintain safe altitudes and began using clear, distinguishing phraseology for each aircraft — addressing one as "American 2482 on approach" and the other as "American 2482 on departure."
The aircraft crossed paths without incident, and both continued to their destinations for safe landings.
Audio from the original air traffic control recording, sourced from public recordings and released investigation records. The reconstruction, animation and written account are our own.
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