United Airlines Flight Strikes Utility Pole Near Newark Airport; Lands Safely

A United Airlines flight from Venice, Italy, experienced a concerning incident as it approached Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey, striking a utility pole near the highway. The Boeing 767, carrying 221 passengers and 10 crew members, managed to land safely, averting a potential disaster. Thankfully, all individuals on board were unharmed.

Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey was quickly briefed on the situation and shared initial details via her official X account. She highlighted that while the landing was successful, preliminary reports indicated that a truck on the New Jersey Turnpike might have been involved in the incident. This detail adds a complex layer to the ongoing investigation into how the aircraft came into contact with the pole.

“

preliminary reports indicate that a truck on the highway Turnpike could have been involved.

The impact caused the utility pole to fall, subsequently striking another vehicle, a Jeep, on the highway. The driver of the truck involved was transported to a hospital with minor injuries and has since been released. Dashcam footage captured the moment of impact, with a loud buzzing sound followed by the shattering of the truck's window.

Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations to determine the exact cause of the incident. The proximity of the airport to major roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike means such near-misses, while rare, underscore the critical importance of air traffic control and pilot vigilance during landing procedures. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between aviation and ground infrastructure.

“

all passengers and crew are unharmed.