A JetBlue pilot reported a drone collision while landing at JFK Airport in New York. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the incident that occurred this morning at approximately 7:15 am when the plane was flying at 3,000 feet. The JetBlue flight B9-948 from Las Vegas successfully landed on Runway 13L without the need for an emergency landing.
During communication with air traffic control, the pilot mentioned the drone collision above the cockpit. Following the incident, all passengers disembarked safely, and the plane underwent inspection after being taken out of service by the airline.
JetBlue confirmed no damage or signs of a collision on the Airbus A321 aircraft. The airline emphasized safety as its top priority and expressed willingness to cooperate with relevant investigations. While drones are permitted below 400 feet in the US, airspace restrictions near airports and public events like the World Cup are enforced due to safety considerations.
Reports from the FAA indicate an increasing drone threat around airports, with over 100 drone sightings reported monthly near airports. Violators of restricted airspace regulations can face fines, license revocation, or drone confiscation. Concerns over the potential dangers posed by drones have been heightened due to incidents in conflict zones like Ukraine and Iran.
Although initial reports of close encounters between drones and aircraft by pilots may not always result in actual collisions upon investigation, authorities remain vigilant. In a recent case, the FAA determined that a drone passed beneath a United Airlines plane without causing any impact during its approach to San Diego in April.
