A United Airlines Boeing 737, carrying 48 passengers and six crew members, reported a suspected mid-air drone collision on the morning of 29/4. The incident occurred approximately 90 minutes after the flight departed San Francisco, as it was preparing to land in San Diego.

The flight crew believed their aircraft collided with a small unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) at an altitude of approximately 900 meters. In a radio recording released by US authorities, the pilot described the object: "It was too small for me to clearly identify. The object was red and shiny."

_United Airlines aircraft at Boeing's factory in Washington in 1/2024. Photo: AFP_

Minutes before the suspected impact, the United Airlines crew had contacted air traffic control, inquiring if other pilots had observed anything unusual. The pilot reported, "I think I just saw a small red object, off to the right and about 300 meters below us."

A United Airlines spokesperson confirmed the possible drone collision, stating that the incident resulted in no damage or injuries. The airline further elaborated: "United Airlines flight 1980 reported a suspected drone presence before landing in San Diego. The aircraft landed safely, and passengers disembarked normally. Our maintenance team conducted a thorough inspection and found no signs of damage."

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strictly prohibits drone operation above 120 meters without a special permit. Operators are also required to avoid restricted airspace, particularly around airports.

Hong Hanh (According to AFP)