In a harrowing mid‑air incident, Southwest Airlines Flight 1496, departing Burbank en route to Las Vegas, sharply descended roughly 475–500 feet just minutes into the flight to evade a potential collision with another aircraft.
Passengers reported screaming as the jet plunged unexpectedly, with some individuals thrown from their seats and bumping their heads against the cabin ceiling. One passenger likened the sensation to a “Tower of Terror” ride—landing with such force that many feared the plane was crashing.
Two flight attendants sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment upon arrival in Las Vegas. No passengers were seriously hurt.
The pilot later addressed the cabin, stating the descent was executed to avoid another plane after losing contact with air traffic control. Southwest confirmed that the crew responded immediately to two onboard traffic alerts, first climbing, then descending, in compliance with safety protocols. The flight landed safely, and the company has expressed full cooperation with the FAA, which is currently investigating the near-miss.