On July 14th, 2024, a Southwest Airlines 737 MAX approaching Tampa International Airport (TPA) experienced an unusual descent while flying over the waters of Tampa Bay. Automatic tracking data revealed a significant drop in altitude, with the aircraft dipping to a mere 150 feet just four miles from landing.
This stands in stark contrast to the expected altitude of around 1,600 feet at that point in the approach. The sudden and unexpected descent triggered an immediate response from Air Traffic Control (ATC).
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 with registration N8841L was operating flight WN425 from Columbus to Tampa.
Recognizing the potentially dangerous situation, ATC swiftly alerted the flight crew of their critically low position. With passenger safety paramount, the crew initiated a safe diversion to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL). The aircraft landed uneventfully in Fort Lauderdale, ensuring a positive outcome for all onboard.
This incident comes on the heels of a series of concerning occurrences involving Southwest Airlines 737 MAX aircraft in recent months. In June, another Southwest 737 dipped to a concerning 500 feet while approaching Oklahoma City.
Additionally, an April incident saw a Southwest 737 descend to a mere 400 feet above the ocean off the Hawaiian coast during poor weather conditions.
