A JetBlue pilot reported striking a drone while on approach to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, according to officials. The aircraft landed safely, and a subsequent inspection revealed no damage.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened an investigation into the incident, which occurred around 7:15 a.m. EDT. The pilot reported the collision at an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet as the plane was turning.
Air traffic control audio captured the pilot stating, "We collided with a drone back there in the turn." When the controller confirmed the statement, the pilot added, "Yep, it hit us right above the cockpit."
JetBlue confirmed that the flight landed without incident and passengers deplaned normally. A post-flight inspection of the aircraft found no damage or evidence of a collision.
This event marks the latest in a series of drone-related encounters involving commercial aircraft. Just days prior, a United Airlines pilot reported a near-miss with a drone while approaching Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
The FAA estimates it receives over 100 reports of drone sightings near airports each month. The agency prohibits unauthorized drone operations in the vicinity of airports and warns that violators could face significant fines and criminal charges.