Aircraft involved in accident - Two individuals suffer injuries
On Friday, July 25, 2025, Southwest Flight 1496 from Burbank to Las Vegas encountered an unexpected incident shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 737 temporarily dropped around 150 meters due to the crew taking evasive action to avoid a potential mid-air collision[1][2][3].
CNN reported that a military aircraft may have been nearby, triggering the onboard alerts[4]. However, the exact circumstances leading to the warning remain unclear.
Passengers onboard the flight experienced a brief free-fall sensation lasting around 8 to 10 seconds, causing significant fear and some injuries to two flight attendants[1][2][3]. The sudden maneuver also threw passengers out of their seats, creating a tense and chaotic atmosphere onboard.
Despite the alarming descent, the flight landed safely and uneventfully in Las Vegas. The airline confirmed that the crew responded appropriately to traffic alerts[2][3]. Currently, the two injured flight attendants are receiving treatment for their injuries[2][3].
The incident is currently under investigation, with formal investigations by aviation authorities expected to review flight data, air traffic control communications, and the situational context[1][2][3]. No detailed investigation results or findings have been released yet based on the latest available reports.
Meanwhile, unrelated incidents in Hamm, Germany, were also reported. These included a resident facing criminal proceedings due to a fatal motorcycle accident and another motorcyclist being seriously injured in a collision in Hamm-Herringen[5]. An explosion occurred in Hamm due to a spray can on a stove[6].
References:
- Southwest Airlines Flight 1496 Experiences Sudden Descent Near Burbank, California
- Southwest Airlines Plane Drops 150 Meters in California
- Southwest Airlines Plane Drops 150 Meters in California: Passengers' Accounts
- Military Aircraft Nearby May Have Triggered Alert, CNN Reports
- Unrelated Incidents Reported in Hamm, Germany
- Explosion in Hamm Due to Spray Can on Stove
In Las Vegas, despite the harrowing experience of Southwest Flight 1496 from Burbank, the flight, after a sudden descent, managed to land safely. The incident, involving a casino-and-gambling hotspot, is currently under investigation, with authorities looking into the flight data, air traffic control communications, and the situational context.
