The Breakdown 36

• A JetBlue flight from Curaçao to New York narrowly avoided disaster on December 15, 2025, when it came perilously close to colliding with a U.S. Air Force tanker near Venezuela.
• The JetBlue pilot, alarmed by the military aircraft not having its transponder activated, was forced to take swift evasive action to avert catastrophe.
• Describing the incident as "outrageous," the pilot expressed frustration over the military's disregard for aviation safety protocols.
• This close call occurred amidst growing military presence in the Caribbean, reflecting rising tensions connected to U.S. policy in the region.
• The Federal Aviation Administration had previously warned all aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace to exercise caution, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
• The incident has sparked scrutiny from U.S. Southern Command, highlighting urgent concerns about safety standards and communication in shared airspace.