Near Mid-Air Collision: Pilots Make Wrong Turn Off LAX

Incident Overview

• ⚠️ A near mid-air collision occurred off the coast of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
• ✈️ The incident involved two aircraft: American 4 and Terra 621 heavy.

Pilot Deviation and ATC Communication

• 🎯 Terra 621 heavy was instructed to maintain runway heading after takeoff but instead turned south.
• 🗣️ Air Traffic Control (ATC) questioned the deviation, asking for the reason behind the turn.
• 🚨 ATC identified Terra 621 heavy as a potential pilot deviation and provided a number for them to call.

Traffic Awareness and Resolution

• 💥 American 4 reported seeing traffic turn to the south on their own, directly in front of them.
• 🤝 ATC instructed American 4 to stop its climb at 1,500 feet to deconflict with the other aircraft.
• 🔄 Both aircraft were eventually given new headings and altitude clearances to ensure separation.