NTSB: United 767 Struck Light Pole During Low Approach to Newark

NTSB Details United 169 Light Pole Strike

The National Transportation Safety Board has released preliminary findings showing United Airlines Flight 169 descended significantly below the standard three-degree glideslope during final approach to Newark Liberty International Airport on May 3, 2026. The Boeing 767-424ER, arriving from Venice, Italy, struck a 15-foot light pole adjacent to the New Jersey Turnpike.

Flight data recorder analysis indicates the aircraft was approximately six feet above the elevated roadway at impact. The lower left aft fuselage and No. 1 main landing gear tire struck the pole, causing substantial structural damage including a gash nearly four feet long. While initial reports suggested a vehicle collision, the NTSB clarified that debris from the light pole — not the aircraft — struck a southbound tractor-trailer, causing minor injuries to the driver.

Despite the substantial airframe damage, the aircraft landed safely on Runway 29 and taxied to the gate. All 221 passengers and 11 crew members were uninjured. The NTSB classified the event as an accident due to structural damage extent. Investigators continue analyzing cockpit voice recorder data and human factors to determine why the aircraft deviated from the published approach path. A final report with probable cause determination is pending.