Surviving the Southwest Wing Strike: Special Guest Heather’s Horror Flight & CRJs collide at LGA Airport!

Surviving the Southwest Wing Strike: Special Guest Heather’s Horror Flight & CRJs collide at LGA Airport!

Author: The Black Box October 8, 2025 Duration: 59:25

This week on the Black Box Aviation Podcast, Tom & Mike sit down with special guest Heather, a passenger on Southwest Flight 2169 — the flight that suffered a wing strike on landing in Hartford back in 2019. Heather relives that terrifying day: the violent touchdown, passengers getting sick as the plane attempted two more landings, and the final emergency diversion to Providence. It’s a firsthand story of fear, confusion, and what it’s like when a routine flight goes very wrong.

We talk about how that moment still affects her today and how it’s changed the way she thinks about flying. From last-minute hurricane travel to booking under stress, Heather opens up about the anxiety and logistics behind making big travel decisions when the weather — and your nerves — are unpredictable.

Then, we break down the science behind the Fujiwhara Effect, where two hurricanes “dance” around each other, and cover breaking news on the Delta CRJ collision at LaGuardia.

✈️ In This Episode:

  • Heather’s firsthand account of the Southwest 2169 wing strike

  • The psychological side of surviving an in-flight emergency

  • How pilots plan around hurricanes & what the Fujiwhara Effect means

  • Why last-minute travel decisions can turn risky fast

  • Delta’s CRJ collision at LGA and what happens next


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Ever wondered what it’s really like to sit in the cockpit, not just during a smooth flight but through the challenging moments that define a career in the sky? The Black Box Aviation Podcast pulls back the curtain, offering a rare seat at the table with the people who live and breathe flight. Hosted by The Black Box, each conversation features airline pilots, military aviators, and seasoned industry experts sharing unfiltered stories from their professional journeys. You’ll hear more than just technical discussions; this podcast delves into the human side of aviation-the daily realities, the tough decisions, and the unique culture that comes with a life spent above the clouds. It’s about the airline industry’s inner workings, the transition from military to civilian flying, and the sheer curiosity that drives a passion for aviation. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot, an aviation enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the stories behind the controls, these discussions provide a genuine, grounded perspective you won’t find in a manual. Tune in for honest reflections and personal experiences that capture the true essence of flying.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 91

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