United 737 Reports Possible Drone Strike on San Diego Approach

A United Airlines Boeing 737 crew reported a potential collision with a drone while approaching San Diego International Airport. According to air traffic control communications analyzed by CaptainSteeeve and reported by Business Insider, the crew observed a small, shiny red object at approximately 3,000 feet while on the base leg near waypoints CATDG and SEAO.

United Airlines conducted a thorough maintenance inspection following the report and found no visible damage to the aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration said air traffic control alerted other pilots in the area, but no additional drone sightings were reported. While the crew indicated they may have struck the object, regulators have not confirmed physical contact, categorizing the event as a reported near-miss or possible collision.

The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding unauthorized drone operations near major airports. FAA regulations require specific authorization for drone flights in Class B airspace, with operators typically limited to 400-foot altitudes without waivers. Violators can face civil penalties or criminal charges for interfering with manned aircraft operations.