New findings from the investigation into a United Airlines Boeing 767 incident at Newark Liberty International Airport have revealed that the aircraft’s co-pilot recognized the jet was flying lower than expected during its final approach but did not realize the situation soon enough to call for a go-around.
According to the preliminary report released by the National Transportation Safety Board, the incident occurred on May 3 when a United Airlines flight arriving from Venice, Italy, struck a light pole moments before landing. Crew members reported hearing a loud “thump” and feeling a mild jolt just before touchdown. The first officer recalled warning that the aircraft was “still slow and a little low” as it descended toward the runway.
Despite the impact, the Boeing 767 landed safely at Newark Liberty International Airport with more than 200 passengers and crew on board. No injuries were reported, although the aircraft sustained substantial fuselage damage and one landing tire showed evidence of slash marks. The light pole strike also damaged a nearby truck’s windshield and punctured its trailer.
Investigators have not yet identified a definitive cause of the low approach. However, aviation experts cited in the report suggested the aircraft appeared to be flying below the established glide path while dealing with challenging weather conditions, including wind gusts reaching 31 mph and moderate turbulence. The report also noted that the flight’s runway assignment changed three times before landing, with the aircraft ultimately using the airport’s shortest runway.
The NTSB’s preliminary findings do not include safety recommendations, which are expected to be addressed in a final report likely to be released next year. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to examine pilot actions, weather conditions, and operational factors surrounding the incident.