A JetBlue Airways pilot reported that his aircraft struck a drone while approaching John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on June 29, 2026. The incident occurred at approximately 7:15am US time as the flight was preparing to land.
Pilot Reports Drone Collision at 3,000 Feet
According to the pilot, the drone hit a section just above the cockpit when the aircraft was at an altitude of 3,000 feet. Despite the collision, the pilot informed air traffic control that the plane was still safe to land without assistance. He stated: "We collided with a drone back there in the turn as we were coming to ASALT, just wanted to pass to you."
No Damage Found After Landing
After a successful landing, a post-flight inspection revealed no damage to the aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it will investigate the incident. No details about the type of drone involved have been released.
Similar Incident Days Earlier at Newark
This event follows a similar report by a United Airlines pilot while landing at Newark Liberty International Airport. That pilot reported a drone in the area, but it did not strike the plane. Additionally, another pilot from an unknown airline had reported seeing a small drone operating in the area earlier that day, according to ABC.
