An incident involving a United Airlines flight occurred recently at Newark Liberty International Airport, as revealed in a preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). On a flight from Venice, Italy, the aircraft, a Boeing 767, flew at a speed and altitude deemed too low and struck a light pole on the New Jersey Turnpike, resulting in damage to a tractor-trailer truck.
The aircraft carried 231 passengers, all of whom were unharmed, although the truck driver sustained minor injuries. Dashcam video captured the close encounter, showing the landing gear narrowly missing the truck’s cab before the pole collision.
The NTSB report covering the May 3, 2026 accident noted the flight was normal until descent. Initially, the flight crew intended to land on runway 4R but were instructed to switch runways twice, ending on runway 29. During the approach, the captain piloted the aircraft while the first officer monitored the instruments.
The report stated, “As they descended, the airspeed began to decay, and the first officer recalled that he stated, ‘hey you are slow,’ followed moments later by, ‘you are still slow and a little low.'”
The captain acknowledged hearing the airspeed warning but believed the landing position was secure. Upon nearing the runway, a “thump” was reported by the captain, with the first officer noting a “mild jolt.” The aircraft passed over the turnpike at a mere 19 feet.
Post-landing inspection revealed three punctures on the fuselage and slash marks on a landing gear tire. Subsequently, United Airlines reminded pilots to utilize visual glideslope indicators for safe landings.
A United spokesperson, when asked about the report and the captain’s current status, stated, “We don’t have anything to share.” The NTSB investigation is ongoing and expected to conclude within a year.
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