A United Airlines pilot reported a possible drone strike on a Boeing 737 carrying 48 passengers and six crew members while approaching San Diego International Airport from San Francisco. The incident reportedly occurred at an altitude of approximately 3,000 to 4,000 feet, which is significantly above the typical federal regulations for drone operation, which usually cap at 400 feet without authorization. The pilot described the object as small, red, and shiny. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the report.
The flight landed safely, and all passengers deplaned normally. United Airlines confirmed the report of a potential drone encounter but could not confirm whether a strike actually occurred. Following a thorough inspection, maintenance crews found no damage to the aircraft. Air traffic control alerted other pilots in the area, but no additional drone sightings were reported.
This incident highlights concerns about unauthorized drone operations near airports and the potential risks they pose to commercial aviation. While confirmed drone strikes on commercial aircraft are rare, the occurrence at such a high altitude in an airport's arrival path is particularly alarming. The FAA emphasizes that unauthorized drone operations near aircraft and airports are dangerous and illegal. foxbusiness.com thehill.com simpleflying.com avgeekery.com newser.com
