When you’re driving along the highway, you typically don’t anticipate the possibility of being struck by a commercial airplane. Nevertheless, that’s precisely what occurred today…
In this article:
United 767 damages New Jersey Turnpike
This occurrence took place today (Sunday, May 3, 2026), involving United Airlines flight UA169, which was flying from Venice (VCE) to Newark (EWR). Specifically, the flight was operated by a 23-year-old Boeing 767-400ER with the registration N77066, carrying 231 individuals onboard, comprised of 221 passengers and 10 crew members.
At approximately 1:50PM local time, following a flight duration of around 8 hours and 30 minutes, the aircraft was on its final approach to runway 19 at Newark. It clearly descended too low, resulting in the plane colliding with both light poles and even a catering truck on the New Jersey Turnpike, shortly beyond the runway boundary.
One video recorded from within a vehicle doesn’t capture the actual impact, but you can hear people cursing in disbelief over what they witnessed.
Another video comes from the perspective of the bakery truck that was struck by the airplane’s wheel (which reportedly shattered the driver’s window). The footage is quite graphic, but thankfully the driver seems to have escaped with only minor injuries.
The airline has stated that the aircraft landed without incident, taxied to the gate as usual, and confirmed that there were no injuries among passengers or crew. The maintenance team of the carrier is currently assessing the damage to the aircraft and investigating the cause of the occurrence.
It’s notable that United’s official statement only mentions that the plane “came into contact with a light pole,” without acknowledging the truck it struck. Clearly, they were initially unaware of the full extent of the incident.
The FAA is currently probing this United 767 incident
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now examining this situation, and it will be interesting to see the outcome. No issues had been reported with the aircraft prior to the “contact,” suggesting that the plane inadvertently descended lower than intended, for reasons yet to be determined.
Newark’s runway 29 is frequently used for arrivals, though it isn’t particularly lengthy, measuring 6,725 feet. While that isn’t overly short, it does compel pilots to ensure they don’t land too far down the runway. Additionally, the proximity of the New Jersey Turnpike adds an element of drama to the approaches.
Only a few weeks ago, footage surfaced showing a United Boeing 777-200ER appearing to execute a dangerously low approach to the same runway, which prompted screams from a passenger in a nearby vehicle.
Despite United’s commendable safety record overall, the airline appears to experience more takeoff and landing incidents compared to American and Delta (at least in discussions within the media), leaving one to ponder the implications.
A couple of years back, the FAA even escalated their oversight of United due to a series of occurrences. However, the subsequent investigation did not uncover any significant systemic problems.
In conclusion
Earlier today, a United Boeing 767 encountered a dramatic approach to Newark Airport, striking a light pole and a truck on the New Jersey Turnpike. While Newark’s runway 29 is known for low approaches, this represents a serious concern. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among those onboard the aircraft, and it successfully landed. Additionally, the truck driver did not suffer severe injuries, which is certainly a positive outcome.
What are your thoughts on this peculiar United 767 incident?