Video shows Boeing 777 making very low pass over Texas airfield
Footage Captures Boeing 777 Performing Near-Ground Flight Over Texas Airport
shows Boeing 777 making very low pass - A recent video has gone viral after capturing a Boeing 777 executing an exceptionally low flight path near the Horseshoe Bay Resort Jet Center in Central Texas. The incident occurred during the aircraft’s approach to the facility, prompting curiosity about the maneuver’s purpose.
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 reveals the plane maintained a height of less than 25 feet above the ground during the low pass on Wednesday. This detail has raised questions about the safety and intent behind the maneuver, as it was significantly closer to the surface than typical flight operations.
"We are turning final runway 17 for a low approach, 5DN heavy," pilots communicated to air traffic control via LiveATC.net, indicating the deliberate nature of the flight pattern.
The Federal Aviation Administration is currently examining the event to determine if any regulatory violations occurred. The aircraft, owned by Jetran—a local company based at the airport—was reportedly conducting a final pre-delivery test flight before joining Qatar Airways Cargo’s fleet.
Jetran Clarifies Ownership and Operation Details
In a statement, Jetran emphasized that while the plane was painted in Qatar Airways livery, it was not operated or registered under the Qatari carrier’s name. The pilots involved were also not affiliated with Qatar Airways, the company noted.
"We expect the relevant parties and authorities to investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate action," Jetran added, underscoring its commitment to transparency.
Former National Transportation Safety Board Chair Robert Sumwalt criticized the maneuver as "another example of stupid pilot tricks," suggesting the pilots may face credential suspensions. "I see no legitimate reason at all to perform this maneuver the way it was done," he stated, adding that the pilots "clearly had planned it" with an audience ready to observe and record the event.
Qatar Airways initially directed CBS News to Jetran for further information, highlighting the company’s role in the aircraft’s operations. The incident continues to spark debate about aviation safety protocols and the purpose of such low-altitude passes.