by Jim Timm
There were two Near Mid-Air Collision incidents reported during the last reporting period; one occurred on June 16, and the other occurred on July 21, 2026.
Date: June 16, 2026
Location: Scottsdale Airport (SDL)
A helicopter was transitioning from the Scottsdale Class Delta Airspace VFR at 3,000 feet. A Citation was issued a takeoff clearance with a right-hand turn to a heading of 285°, and to an altitude of 5,000 feet. The controller verified that the helicopter was transitioning southwest bound and would remain west of the RWY centerline. The controller advised the Citation, that was now climbing to 5,000 feet of the helicopter’s presence. The helicopter asked the controller if they should remain at their present altitude or if they should descend. The controller advised that the Citation which was taking off was climbing to 5,000 feet, and an altitude change was at the helicopter’s discretion. The Citation began their right-hand turn and crossed in front of the helicopter. The helicopter advised the controller that the Citation just “cut” right in front of them.
Date: July 21, 2026
Location: Scottsdale Airport (SDL)
An IFR R44 helicopter departed on the MRRIC1 obstacle departure. The helicopter lifted off and immediately turned right and also changed frequency without ATC approval. At the time there were 2 other aircraft in the right downwind. The controller trainee initiated a traffic advisory to all aircraft, and the IFR helicopter did not respond, but continued it’s climb. The 2 aircraft in the right downwind were in level flight at 2,500 feet and within 1/4 of a mile of each other. The leading aircraft turned and climbed 200 feet to avoid the helicopter.