A JetBlue pilot reported to air traffic control that his aircraft had collided with a drone while approaching JFK Airport in New York. The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into the incident that occurred at approximately 7:15 am today, with the plane flying at 3,000 feet.
The JetBlue flight B9-948, originating from Las Vegas, managed to land safely on Runway 13L at JFK Airport without requiring an emergency landing. The pilot informed the air traffic controller about the collision with the drone above the cockpit during the turn.
Following the incident, all passengers disembarked without any issues, and the plane was taken out of service for inspection. JetBlue confirmed that no damage or signs of a collision were found on the Airbus A321 aircraft. The airline emphasized its commitment to safety and willingness to cooperate with relevant investigations.
In the United States, drones are generally permitted to fly below 400 feet, but airspace restrictions around airports and public events like the World Cup are enforced by the FAA due to safety considerations. Reports from law enforcement officials indicate that drone presence, even for video purposes, can divert attention from potential threats.
FAA records show an increasing number of drone-related incidents near airports, with over 100 sightings reported monthly. Violators of restricted airspace regulations may face significant fines, license revocation, or drone confiscation. Concerns about the dangers posed by drones, based on experiences in conflicts like the Ukraine and Iran wars, have heightened officials’ vigilance.
While initial reports from airline pilots regarding close encounters with drones are taken seriously, subsequent investigations sometimes reveal no actual collision occurred. For instance, in April, the FAA confirmed that a drone passed beneath a United Airlines plane by about 1,000 feet as it approached San Diego without causing any impact.