Drone nearly hits United plane landing in Newark, pilot says
Drone Nearly Hits United Plane During Newark Landing, Pilot Details the Close Call
Drone nearly hits United plane landing - On Friday, a United Airlines flight narrowly avoided a collision with a drone while landing at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, as confirmed by the pilot's report. The incident, which has raised concerns about drone safety in aviation, occurred around 5:20 p.m. ET during the aircraft's approach to the runway. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials confirmed that the drone was detected in the vicinity of the plane, prompting an immediate investigation into the event. This incident highlights the growing challenge of integrating unmanned aerial systems into the nation's airspace while ensuring the safety of commercial flights.
The Pilot’s Account of the Near Miss
"We almost hit a drone," the pilot can be heard saying in air traffic control audio verified by CNN, noting the object was circular and approximately three feet wide, positioned “about 100 feet below us.”
The pilot described the moment as “very close” and emphasized the urgency of the situation. The United Airlines Boeing 737, which was transporting 106 passengers and five crew members from Key West, Florida, landed safely about 30 minutes later, with no injuries reported and passengers exiting the gate without disruption, according to United Airlines. Another pilot on a United Express flight operated by GoJet Airlines also reported spotting a drone at roughly 2,000 feet, as per air traffic control recordings from the same timeframe.
FAA’s Response to Drone Encounters
The FAA has been monitoring drone activity near U.S. airports for years, with approximately 100 sightings reported monthly. However, collisions remain rare, and most encounters involve pilots altering their course or descending to avoid potential threats. Through March 2026, the agency documented 319 pilot reports of drone encounters, with only eight instances requiring evasive maneuvers. Just one collision occurred at San Carlos Airport in California, underscoring the effectiveness of current protocols but also the need for continued vigilance.
Following the Newark incident, the FAA has reiterated its commitment to improving drone safety measures. Officials are analyzing data from the event to determine if any new regulations or technology upgrades are necessary. The agency is also working with airlines and drone operators to develop a more coordinated approach to managing airspace. This includes training for pilots on how to identify and respond to drones, as well as expanding the use of counter-UAS systems at high-traffic airports.
Increasing Drone Activity and Aviation Challenges
As drone technology becomes more accessible, the frequency of near-misses with commercial aircraft has risen. This trend has prompted discussions among lawmakers and industry leaders about the need for stricter rules and better enforcement. In a recent Senate Commerce Subcommittee hearing, Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen emphasized the importance of integrating drone safety into broader aviation regulations. “We must ensure that drones and manned aircraft coexist without compromising safety,” she stated, calling for collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense on counter-UAS technologies.
Chris Sununu, former New Hampshire Governor and CEO of Airlines for America, added that regulatory frameworks must be updated to address the evolving landscape of drone use. “There can’t be any loopholes in the system,” he said, stressing the need for real-time monitoring and rapid response protocols. The Newark incident has reignited interest in these measures, with some experts suggesting that airports should invest in more advanced detection systems to prevent future collisions.
Newark Airport’s Drone Safety Measures
Newark Liberty International Airport, which is located about 15 miles from East Rutherford, New Jersey, where World Cup matches are scheduled, has implemented strict drone activity restrictions to ensure event safety. Officials have announced that drones are banned in the airspace surrounding the venue during high-traffic periods. In April 2019, flights at Newark were previously delayed after a drone was spotted near Teterboro Airport, located approximately 17 miles away, as reported by the FAA.
These measures reflect the airport’s proactive approach to minimizing risks. With the increasing use of drones for both recreational and commercial purposes, airports are under pressure to balance innovation with safety. The Newark incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of unregulated drone flights and the importance of maintaining clear guidelines for operators. The FAA is also exploring the possibility of expanding drone detection systems to all major airports, aiming to create a safer environment for both passengers and drone users.