Possible drone collision with JetBlue jet under FAA investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration is looking into a possible collision between a JetBlue plane and a drone as the flight was approaching John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on the morning of June 29.

According to the FAA, there was no evidence of damage to the plane in a post-flight inspection, but the agency is still investigating.

"The pilot of JetBlue Airlines 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, June 29," the agency said in a statement.

JetBlue confirmed the incident as well and emphasized that there were no injuries reported.

"The crew of JetBlue flight 948 from Las Vegas (LAS) to New York (JFK) reported a possible drone encounter during the aircraft's final approach into New York. The flight landed without incident, customers deplaned normally, and the plane was removed from service for a post-flight inspection, which found no damage or evidence of a collision," a statement from the airline said. "Safety is JetBlue's first priority, and we will assist with any relevant investigations."

According to the FAA, it is dangerous and illegal to operate drones near airports or other aircraft, and drone operators who violate the law can face significant fines or jail time.

The agency has more information about drone operation regulations on its website.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Possible drone collision with JetBlue jet under FAA investigation

Reporting by Zach Wichter, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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This story was originally published June 29, 2026 at 10:53 AM.