NTSB Investigates Near-Miss Between Southwest Jet Eurocopter Cleveland Hopkins

Federal authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), are investigating a near-miss incident between a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 and a Eurocopter helicopter near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The incident, described as a "loss of separation event," occurred on October 29 when the two aircraft came closer than the minimum safe distance while both were inbound to the airport. The Southwest flight crew discontinued their approach due to the helicopter's presence and remained in contact with air traffic control throughout. No injuries or damages have been reported, and the NTSB is working to determine the circumstances and whether any safety protocols were breached. This investigation comes amid reports of staffing shortages and operational challenges at airports due to a government shutdown, which has affected air traffic control staffing levels. Southwest Airlines is cooperating with the investigation as the NTSB team gathers more information.