A pilot flying a commercial aircraft near Gatwick Airport reported a close encounter with a suspected drone resembling a “flying saucer” as the plane was about to land. This incident, which occurred in April, was part of a series of alarming incidents involving drones and commercial planes in the UK.
In another instance, crew members of a different aircraft reported seeing a drone so near that they could distinguish its markings and propellers. The UK Airprox Board investigation revealed that the drone flew very close to the descending A319 aircraft, passing by the right wing at the same level, approximately 100-300ft away. The object appeared disc-shaped with darker markings, resembling a drone but not confirmed. Fortunately, no evasive action was needed as the aircraft was already turning.
Following an evaluation of the near-miss, the board concluded that the safety of the jet had been compromised. In a separate incident near Heathrow Airport, crew members of an A321 aircraft observed a drone flying dangerously close to their plane during a turn onto the base leg. Airprox officials highlighted the potential risk of collision in this incident.
Moreover, military personnel encountered a mysterious craft during an air-to-air refueling mission over the North Sea. Two Royal Air Force pilots witnessed an unidentified object flying extremely close to their aircraft, with one pilot having to duck as it passed just 100-150ft away. Despite being visible to the naked eye, the object did not register on radar systems.
These reports underscore the growing concerns surrounding drone sightings near commercial and military aircraft, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures to prevent potential collisions.