An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed critical insights into the incident involving a United Airlines flight that collided with a light pole during its landing at Newark Liberty International Airport. Fortunately, while the event did cause damage, it resulted in no injuries among the 220 passengers and 11 crew members on board the aircraft.
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The incident occurred on 3 May when United Airlines flight 169 was preparing to land. The aircraft was reportedly flying at an altitude of just 19 feet before striking the top of a 15-foot light post as it approached Newark’s Runway 29. The collision led to debris hitting a tractor-trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike, resulting in minor injuries to the truck driver.
Runway 29 is known to be Newark’s oldest and shortest landing strip, making it a common sight for local motorists to observe aircraft flying low over the turnpike. However, the NTSB report indicates that flight 169 was at a lower altitude than what is typically expected at this phase of landing.
Detailed analysis within the NTSB’s preliminary report outlines the flight crew’s actions as the aircraft made its descent. According to the captain’s account, he disconnected the autopilot and auto-throttles in preparation for landing. He noted, “I got fast” as he adjusted the plane into the headwind and reduced engine power. The report indicated that while wind gusts were creating moderate turbulence, the aeroplane managed to maintain a stable airspeed.
During the descent, there were indications that the aircraft was losing speed. The first officer alerted the captain to their pace by stating, “hey, you are slow,” followed soon after by “you are still slow and a little low.” Despite the concern, the flight safely completed its landing, although the captain reported hearing a thud just prior to touchdown. The first officer recalled feeling a slight jolt as they neared the runway threshold.
Once on the ground, the chief flight attendant informed the cockpit crew that a loud bang had been heard before landing. Subsequent inspections revealed significant damage to the aircraft, particularly along the aft fuselage. Images provided within the NTSB report illustrated three punctures on the fuselage, one measuring approximately 46 inches in length. The report also detailed the presence of dents and creases between the damaged areas, indicating the severity of the impact.
In addition to the punctures in the fuselage, one of the plane’s tyres displayed signs of slash marks. The NTSB classified the overall damage to the vessel as “substantial.” As the crew and passengers disembarked without incident, it was confirmed that no one aboard had sustained any injuries.
Investigators are continuing their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this incident while adhering to the established aviation protocols. A representative for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) commented on the situation, clarifying that planes must approach directly over the New Jersey Turnpike when landing on Runway 29, as alternative flight paths are not feasible due to safety considerations.
Citing their findings, the FAA noted that the unique location of Runway 29 necessitates this direct approach for safe landings. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for United Airlines stated that the airline currently has no additional comments to make following the publication of the report.
As the investigation progresses, further details may emerge regarding the incident, which has raised questions about safety procedures and operational protocols in the aviation sector. For now, both the NTSB and FAA are working to ensure that any necessary changes are made to prevent similar occurrences in the future.