John F. Kennedy International Airport experienced two separate incidents involving unmanned aircraft on Monday, raising concerns about air safety. In one event, a JetBlue passenger plane collided with a drone while descending, and hours later, a helicopter pilot reported a close call with a remote-controlled aircraft.
The JetBlue Airbus A321, arriving from Las Vegas, struck a drone at an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet, about 10 to 12 miles from the airport. The pilot informed air traffic controllers about the collision just minutes before landing. The aircraft landed safely at Terminal 5, and no injuries were reported. A JetBlue spokesperson stated that the plane was inspected post-flight and showed no signs of damage.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will investigate the JetBlue incident. The FBI is also reportedly involved.
Separately, a helicopter pilot en route from JFK to Manhattan reported a near-miss with a large, remote-controlled airplane at an altitude of 500 feet. Air traffic controllers indicated the object was not visible on radar. The FAA is not investigating this particular near-miss, and it is not believed to be connected to the JetBlue incident.
These events come shortly after a United Airlines flight reportedly had a near-collision with a drone during its approach to Newark Liberty International Airport. The pilot stated the unmanned object was about 100 feet below the aircraft.
Unsafe drone operations or flying without permission can result in fines up to $75,000, according to the FAA. The agency has stated it will hold operators fully accountable for any violations.