NEW YORK — A JetBlue flight reported striking a drone while on final approach to John F. Kennedy International Airport on Monday morning, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
The FAA said the pilot of JetBlue Flight 948 reported striking a drone at approximately 3,000 feet altitude while on final approach to John F. Kennedy International Airport around 7:15 a.m. local time on Monday. The flight had departed from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, according to the FAA.
JetBlue said the crew reported a possible drone encounter during the aircraft's final approach into New York. The aircraft landed without incident, passengers deplaned normally, and the plane was pulled from service for a post-flight inspection, the airline said.
Both JetBlue and the FAA said the inspection found no evidence of damage to the aircraft or signs of a collision.
"Safety is JetBlue's first priority, and we will assist with any relevant investigations," the airline said in a statement.
The FAA said it will investigate the incident. Unauthorized drone operations near airports are illegal under federal regulations, and operators who violate the rules may face civil penalties and criminal charges, including potential jail time, the agency said.
The FAA noted that reports of unmanned aircraft sightings from pilots, citizens and law enforcement remain elevated nationwide. The investigation into Monday's incident is ongoing, and no further details on the drone's origin or operator have been confirmed.
