Helicopter pilot reports near miss with remote-controlled aircraft near JFK
A helicopter pilot said a remote-controlled plane came within close proximity of his aircraft near Floyd Bennett Field, marking the second such incident reported Monday, while authorities continue to investigate related drone sightings at New York airports.
A helicopter pilot reported that a remote-controlled aircraft flew within 500 feet of his helicopter near Floyd Bennett Field, close to John F. Kennedy Airport, prompting a notification to air-traffic controllers. The Federal Aviation Administration said it is aware of the report and has informed local authorities, but it is not opening an investigation at this time.
Earlier on Monday, a JetBlue flight encountered a drone at approximately 3,000 feet while on approach to JFK. The aircraft landed safely without damage, and the incident is being examined by the FAA and the FBI. A similar close call was reported at Newark Airport on Friday.
The FAA receives more than 100 complaints each month about unmanned aircraft operating in prohibited airspace and has recently launched a public-safety campaign. Aviation expert John Nance emphasized that drones lack transponders and are difficult to detect, increasing the risk of collisions near airports.
Interfering with aircraft operations is a federal crime punishable by up to $100,000 in fines. The FBI urged the public to report unsafe drone activity by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.
