Southwest planes near-miss

A major aviation disaster was narrowly averted on Saturday when an air traffic controller directed a plane aborting its landing into the path of another jet cleared for takeoff.

Both aircraft were equipped with collision avoidance systems that alerted the pilots to the immediate danger, allowing them to take evasive maneuvers.

Data from flight tracking services confirmed the narrow separation between the two passenger-packed jets.

The incident has reignited concerns about staffing levels and safety protocols at major U.S. airports.