JetBlue flight strikes drone during approach to JFK, no damage reported
A JetBlue Airways aircraft hit an unauthorized drone at about 3,000 feet while descending to John F. Kennedy International Airport on Monday morning; the plane landed safely and a post-flight inspection found no damage.
A JetBlue Airways pilot said a drone collided with the aircraft as it was turning for final approach to John F. Kennedy International Airport at roughly 7:15 a.m. on Monday. The impact occurred about 3,000 feet above the runway, near the cockpit, according to the pilot’s report to air traffic control.
The crew continued the landing without assistance, and a subsequent inspection revealed no damage to the plane. The Federal Aviation Administration announced it will investigate the incident.
JetBlue issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to safety and said it will cooperate with any relevant investigations.
The event follows a recent report of a United Airlines pilot narrowly avoiding a drone while landing at Newark Liberty International Airport. The FAA notes that unauthorized drone operations near airports are illegal and can result in fines, criminal charges, or imprisonment.
