An investigation has been launched after a JetBlue pilot reported that his plane collided with a drone while approaching JFK Airport in New York. The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 a.m. local time as Flight B9-948 from Las Vegas was descending to land on Runway 13L.
Pilot Reports Collision at 3,000 Feet
Audio from the cockpit captured the pilot telling air traffic control, "We collided with a drone back there in the turn." The controller responded, "You said you collided?" to which the pilot replied, "Yup, it hit us right above the cockpit." The aircraft was at an altitude of around 3,000 feet at the time of the reported impact.
Despite the collision report, the Airbus A321 continued its approach and landed safely without requiring emergency assistance. All passengers disembarked normally, and the plane was subsequently taken out of service for inspection.
No Damage Found, FAA Investigates
JetBlue stated that after a thorough inspection, "no damage or evidence of a collision" was found on the aircraft. The airline emphasized that "safety is JetBlue's first priority" and confirmed cooperation with relevant investigations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now investigating the incident. Drones are generally permitted to fly below 400 feet in the United States, but strict restrictions apply near airports and public events due to safety concerns. The FAA reports that over 100 drone sightings near airports are investigated each month, and violators face substantial fines, license revocation, or confiscation of their drones.
Growing Concerns Over Drone Threats
Law enforcement officials note that drones can distract officers from other security threats, even when pilots are merely attempting to capture aerial footage. The increasing use of drones in conflicts, such as in Ukraine and Iran, has heightened concerns about potential threats.
However, not all initial reports of drone collisions are confirmed upon investigation. In April, the FAA determined that a drone passed approximately 1,000 feet below a United Airlines plane landing in San Diego, without any actual collision occurring.
