JetBlue Pilot Reports Striking Drone at New York's JFK Airport

JetBlue said one of its aircraft was taken out of service for inspection after a pilot reported a possible drone strike while the plane was approaching John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on June 29.

The airline said the jet landed safely and was later checked for damage. JetBlue reported that inspectors found no evidence of a collision.

What happened

The flight, JetBlue Flight 948 from Las Vegas, was on final approach to JFK when the pilot reported seeing or striking a drone at about 3,000 feet, according to reporting based on air traffic control audio and airline confirmation. The landing took place safely around 7:15 a.m. Eastern time.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it is investigating the incident.

What remains unclear

There is still uncertainty about whether the aircraft was actually hit or whether the crew only reported a suspected impact. The pilot told air traffic control that the drone struck the aircraft just above the cockpit, but the post-flight inspection did not find damage.

The drone has not been publicly identified, and it is not yet clear who operated it or whether any enforcement action will follow.

Drone activity near airports is a recurring safety concern because flights in the area are tightly restricted. Incidents near major hubs can raise questions about airport security, pilot procedures and the ability of authorities to identify operators quickly.

The JFK report comes as attention remains high on drone safety around New York-area airports.