The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report on the United Airlines flight incident at Newark Liberty International Airport. The report reveals that the aircraft was just 19 feet above the New Jersey Turnpike when it struck a light pole during its landing approach last month.
Details of the Incident
The flight, United 169, was arriving from Venice, Italy, and was below the normal glide path for the final three-quarters of a mile before reaching the runway. As it crossed over the New Jersey Turnpike at a speed exceeding 160 miles per hour, the plane’s landing gear and underside collided with a pole.
Initial reports from the New Jersey State Police suggested that the plane also struck a tractor-trailer. However, the NTSB clarified that the damage to the truck was caused by debris from the pole, not direct contact with the aircraft. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and a Jeep was also hit by the pole.
Flight Crew and Landing Conditions
On May 3, as the plane was preparing to land, the captain turned off the autopilot and auto-throttles, noting that he ‘got fast’ while adjusting for headwind. He then reduced power to stabilize the airspeed amid moderate turbulence. The first officer warned that the aircraft was ‘slow’ and ‘a little low’ during the approach. Crew members reported hearing or feeling unusual sounds and sensations as the plane landed.
Despite the collision, the plane landed normally, and no injuries were reported among the more than 200 passengers and 11 crew members on board. The NTSB found substantial damage to the aircraft, including three punctures to the fuselage and slashes in one of the plane’s tires.
Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB continues to investigate the incident, with a final report to be released upon conclusion. The runway used for the landing, Runway 29, is less than 400 feet from the New Jersey Turnpike and is occasionally used when wind conditions are favorable. This proximity can surprise drivers as planes pass at low altitudes over the highway.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
