Near Miss at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport: EasyJet and Nouvelair Aircraft Come Alarmingly Close to Collision

In a startling incident at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, an EasyJet flight narrowly avoided a catastrophic collision with a Nouvelair aircraft. The event, which occurred late on September 21, 2025, has prompted an urgent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the near miss, raising questions about air traffic control protocols and pilot decision-making in critical situations.

The Incident Unfolds

Passengers aboard the EasyJet flight were poised for takeoff when they were jolted by the deafening roar of an incoming Nouvelair Airbus applying full throttle to avert disaster. Reports indicate that the two aircraft came within a mere 10 feet of colliding, a distance that underscores the gravity of the situation. The EasyJet flight was preparing to depart from the airport, which is the third busiest in France, while the Nouvelair flight was attempting to land on the wrong runway.

Philippe Tabarot, France’s Minister of Transport, confirmed the close call, stating that a collision was “narrowly avoided.” He has since ordered an investigation by the Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA), emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of the incident.

Context of the Incident

The near miss occurred during adverse weather conditions, with heavy rain affecting visibility and operational safety at the airport. Such conditions can complicate the already intricate task of managing air traffic, particularly at busy airports like Nice Côte d’Azur, which serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.

The incident raises broader concerns about air safety, especially in light of historical data showing that runway incursions-when an aircraft mistakenly enters a runway that another aircraft is using-are a significant cause of aviation accidents. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), runway incursions have been a persistent issue, prompting ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols.

Investigating the Causes

Initial reports suggest that the Nouvelair flight, arriving from Tunis, may have made an error in judgment by attempting to land on the wrong runway. The airport management has indicated that the responsibility may lie with the Nouvelair pilots. However, the situation is complex, as air traffic control also plays a crucial role in guiding aircraft safely to their destinations.

Flight tracking data reveals that the Nouvelair Airbus was on a trajectory toward the correct runway before it veered off course. The EasyJet aircraft was reportedly waiting on the same runway, leading to a tense moment as the Nouvelair flight nearly touched down. The pilots of the EasyJet flight, shaken by the experience, ultimately canceled their flight to Nantes, sending passengers back home.

Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitness accounts from passengers provide a chilling perspective on the incident. One traveler, Érard, recounted that the EasyJet captain emerged from the cockpit visibly shaken, stating that a crash had been avoided by just three meters. This revelation highlights the psychological toll such near misses can have on flight crews, who are trained to handle emergencies but may still be affected by the gravity of the situation.

Regulatory Response

The BEA has classified the event as a “serious incident,” grounding both aircraft involved for a comprehensive investigation. The agency has taken possession of the black box recorders from both flights, which will provide critical data for understanding the sequence of events leading up to the near miss. Interviews with the pilots and air traffic controllers are also planned, alongside a review of the weather conditions at the time.

While the BEA has cautioned against jumping to conclusions, it has confirmed that the Nouvelair flight approached the wrong runway. This finding raises questions about the effectiveness of current air traffic control systems and whether additional measures are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Importance of Safety Protocols

In light of this incident, the aviation industry must reflect on the importance of stringent safety protocols. EasyJet has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety, stating that the well-being of customers and crew is its highest priority. The airline has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.

Historically, aviation has made significant strides in safety, with advancements in technology and training contributing to a decline in accidents. However, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder that vigilance is essential. The aviation community must continue to prioritize safety measures, including enhanced training for pilots and air traffic controllers, as well as improved communication protocols.

Conclusion

The near miss at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport serves as a critical reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in modern aviation. As investigations unfold, the focus will be on understanding the factors that led to this alarming incident and ensuring that lessons are learned to enhance safety for all passengers. The aviation industry must remain committed to continuous improvement, as the stakes are high and the safety of countless lives depends on it.