US pilot reports drone collision near New York airport

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a report from a JetBlue pilot who claims to have collided with a drone during final approach to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The incident occurred around 7:15 a.m. local time on Monday, June 29, while the pilot was at an altitude of 3,000 feet.

The flight, originating from Las Vegas, landed without issue, and passengers disembarked normally. The aircraft was temporarily taken out of service for inspection. Both the airline and the FAA confirmed that the technical inspection revealed no damage to the aircraft, and JetBlue noted no signs of collision.

Audio recordings of the communication between the pilot and air traffic control have surfaced. In the recording, the pilot states, "I couldn't talk during the approach, but we collided with a drone." The air traffic controller confirmed, "You said you collided?" to which the pilot replied, "Yes, it hit us a little above the cockpit."

The FAA receives over a hundred reports monthly regarding drones flying near airports. The agency reiterated strict prohibitions on unmanned systems operating near airports, aircraft, helicopters, and critical infrastructure, warning of severe penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences, for violators. Authorities have intensified security measures, particularly in light of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, investing heavily to counter illegal drone flights. Over 1,100 drones have been detected in restricted zones, with more than 300 neutralized.