Pilots flying over Ohio reported encountering a mysterious, pill-shaped unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) that was not detected by air traffic control radar. The sighting occurred on August 16 and was later logged with the National UFO Reporting Center (NUFORC).
According to an account posted on October 26, one of the pilots captured a photograph of the object. The pilot, identified only as 'J,' described the UAP as silver and highly reflective, with a uniform, pill-like shape and no visible warps or tapering. The object appeared almost stationary as the aircraft approached, and pilots estimated its altitude at approximately 43,000 feet.
While en route at about 41,000 feet and approaching a thunderstorm, the pilots decided to fly through a gap between clouds. It was then that 'J' spotted the object a few miles ahead, slightly above their plane and traveling in the opposite direction. The encounter lasted about two minutes.
During the sighting, the pilots checked their aircraft's collision-warning system and flight-tracking app, but no other aircraft were detected. They also contacted Cleveland Center air traffic controllers, who reported no radar contact with any aircraft or unidentified objects in that sector.
'J' initially questioned if the object could have been a weather balloon, but noted its uniform shape challenged that theory, especially given the severe weather conditions, which included engine icing and turbulence that their own aircraft experienced. The NUFORC report stated that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also found no radar detection or database matches for planned balloon launches.
The pilot later provided flight information showing their aircraft was traveling at roughly 380 mph. He took a photograph with his iPhone after the object had passed, estimating it was then about seven miles behind them. He emphasized that his detailed description was based on seeing the object much closer earlier in the encounter.
The NUFORC highlighted the incident as an example of how reports of unidentified objects near civilian aircraft are handled, noting that the FAA had not indicated a referral to other agencies for investigation. The organization also pointed to an exchange in the audio recording where an air traffic controller made a dismissive joke about aliens, suggesting that such reactions can discourage pilots from reporting UAP encounters. NUFORC argued that even objects that are eventually identified as balloons can pose safety concerns in controlled airspace due to potential collision risks with high-speed aircraft.