Summary
A SkyWest Airlines pilot, operating a flight on behalf of Alaska Airlines, told passengers that he was not qualified to land at Jackson Hole Airport (JCA), which was why he was diverting to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
However, the former carrier clarified that there was a paperwork error that caused the diversion.
The Embraer E175 eventually found its way to JCA.
An Alaska Airlines flight, operated by its regional affiliate SkyWest Airlines, was forced to divert from its destination, with the pilot telling passengers that he was not licensed to land at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC).
However, SkyWest Airlines clarified the situation, stating that there was a paperwork error that forced the Embraer E175, registered as N170SY, to divert.
Circling around JAC
According to the history of the flight on Flightradar24, the SkyWest Airlines E175 was operating Alaska Airlines flight AS3491 from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to JAC, with the return itinerary being scheduled on the same flight code.
Nevertheless, on August 8, the E175 departed SFO at 9:09 local time (UTC -7) and was scheduled to arrive at JAC at 12:47 local time (UTC -6).
While the aircraft departed SFO and continued to cruise toward JAC at 25,000 feet (7,620 meters) without any issues, as it began its approach into the airport, the E175 had entered into a holding pattern to the south east of JAC.
A user on the social media network Reddit shared their story from the flight, stating that the pilot allegedly told passengers onboard the E175 that he was not qualified to land at JAC, which was why the aircraft eventually had to divert to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) .
Related Alaska Airlines Repairs Embraer E175 After Tire Blows Out And Damages Electrical Equipment In Eugene, Oregon
Passengers were told to ‘brace’ for landing as they attempted to arrive in Eugene for a second time.
Paperwork error
The SkyWest Airlines E175 landed at SLC at 12:47 local time (UTC -6), taxiing safely to the gate area.
Flightradar24 data showed that the same E175 departed SLC at 14:22, finally landing at JAC at 15:03.
According to a statement by SkyWest Airlines, which was operating the flight on behalf of Alaska Airlines, the flight diverted to SLC to amend a paperwork issue related to the pilots.
Photo: Alaska Airlines
The regional carrier added that the E175 operated the flight from SLC to JAC after a new pilot became available to operate the flight, noting that all pilots were qualified to fly the aircraft.
However, the airline emphasized that an internal administrative error and a cautious approach caused the diversion.
As a result of the incident, SkyWest Airlines has begun an internal review to ensure that such events do not happen in the future, the carrier concluded.
Related What Are Alaska Airlines’ Top Regional Routes With The Embraer E175?
The airline has a strong US West Coast regional network.
Challenging environment
According to JCA, the airport was unique and has presented a challenging environment for pilots. Furthermore, it was the only airport in the US located within a National Park.
Photo: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
“The airport’s runway elevation is 6,451 feet and subject to the frequently changing weather that is associated with a mountainous airport.”
As a result, pilots should prepare for landings at JCA, with the airport recommending flight crews to familiarize themselves with all available information before operating a flight from/to JCA.
Related Jackson Hole: A Brief Guide To Wyoming’s Busiest Airport
The airport is far more interesting than you might think.
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Publish date : 2024-08-16 01:04:00
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