NEW YORK — Air traffic control recordings captured a pilot’s surprised reaction after a Delta Connection flight mistakenly contacted the wrong tower while preparing to land at LaGuardia Airport.
Flight 5752, operated by Republic Airways, was on final approach on March 15 when the pilot realized they had contacted the John F. Kennedy International Airport control tower — located about 10 miles away — instead of LaGuardia Airport.
Notable Exchange
According to audio released by CBS News, the JFK tower appeared confused upon receiving the landing request:
“Who is this?… I’m sorry, where are you?” “Final 2 miles, Brickyard 5752,” the pilot replied. “Final 2 miles where?” “Runway 4.” “At LaGuardia?” “Affirmative.”
Immediately after, the controller responded: “This is Kennedy tower, please switch to LaGuardia tower.”
The pilot replied: “Oh my goodness. Alright.”
Another pilot who overheard the exchange exclaimed: “That’s unbelievable.”
Handling the Situation and Safe Landing
Following the incident, the flight switched to the correct frequency for LaGuardia.
The pilot decided to execute a go-around before making a second approach. This is a crucial technique used to prevent catastrophic aviation accidents in congested areas.
A Republic Airways representative stated that the aircraft landed safely, avoiding a dire scenario similar to the plane that crashed into the Hudson River while attempting an emergency approach.
Authorities Launch Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration is currently investigating the incident. Delta confirmed that its own crew did not directly operate the flight.
Occurring Near Another Serious Incident
The event took place just one week before a major accident in which an Air Canada Express flight collided with a Port Authority vehicle on the runway at LaGuardia, resulting in the deaths of two pilots and dozens of injuries.
