United Airlines Plane Strikes Truck and Pole During Newark Landing; Driver Released
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A United Airlines Boeing 767-400 struck a light pole and a tractor-trailer during its approach to Newark Liberty International Airport on Sunday. The truck driver was treated for minor injuries and released, while none of the 231 passengers and crew on board were hurt. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation and will examine the flight's data recorders.
Facts First
- A United Airlines Boeing 767-400 struck a truck and a light pole during its landing approach at Newark Liberty International Airport.
- The truck driver was hospitalized with minor injuries and has since been released, according to the Port Authority.
- None of the 221 passengers or 10 crew members on board were injured during the incident, United Airlines confirmed.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating and has directed United to provide the cockpit voice and flight data recorders.
- United Airlines has removed the crew from service and its maintenance team is evaluating damage to the aircraft as part of a safety investigation.
What Happened
On Sunday, United Airlines flight 169 struck a light pole and a tractor-trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike during its approach to Newark Liberty International Airport. Dashcam footage captured the Boeing 767-400 passenger jet making contact with the truck. New Jersey State Police reported that the plane's landing tire and underside collided with the pole and truck, and the falling pole then struck a Jeep on the highway.
Why this Matters to You
This incident highlights the potential risks of air travel near densely populated ground infrastructure. While the outcome was fortunately not catastrophic, it may lead to a review of flight paths and safety protocols at major airports, which could affect future travel. For now, the immediate impact is limited to the investigation and the temporary grounding of one aircraft and its crew.
What's Next
The NTSB investigator is scheduled to arrive in Newark on Monday to begin the official inquiry. United Airlines will provide the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder as directed. The airline's internal safety investigation is also underway, which includes evaluating the aircraft's damage. The findings from these investigations may result in new safety recommendations for airlines and airports.