A United Airlines flight struck a light pole during its final approach to Newark Liberty International Airport, sending debris crashing onto the New Jersey Turnpike and damaging multiple vehicles below. Dashcam footage captured the harrowing moment when Flight UA169 flew dangerously low over traffic before colliding with infrastructure.
Dashcam Captures Close Call
Video obtained from H&S Bakery shows the Boeing aircraft passing directly overhead before striking a light pole on the New Jersey Turnpike. The footage, recorded by a Schmidt Bakery truck driver, reveals debris from the damaged pole hitting the vehicle. A Port Authority spokesperson confirmed a tractor-trailer sustained damage in the incident, which occurred just before 2 p.m. Sunday. The driver of the tractor-trailer suffered non-life-threatening injuries and received treatment at a local hospital.
Multiple Vehicles Damaged
According to preliminary investigations, the aircraft’s landing tire and underside collided with both a pole and a tractor-trailer during the approach. The impact sent the pole crashing into a Jeep traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike. United Airlines confirmed the incident, stating Flight UA169 came into contact with a light pole during final approach. Despite the collision, the aircraft landed safely with all passengers and crew unharmed. The Federal Aviation Administration launched an investigation to determine what caused the dangerous low approach.
Officials Respond
Governor Mikie Sherrill addressed the incident, expressing gratitude that the aircraft landed without casualties. She confirmed receiving briefings on the situation and noted initial reports indicating turnpike involvement. United Airlines continues investigating how their aircraft descended low enough to strike ground infrastructure during what should have been a routine landing approach. The crash remains under active investigation by federal authorities, with no additional details released regarding potential mechanical failure or pilot error. This marks a rare instance of commercial aircraft making contact with roadway infrastructure during airport operations.