United Airlines Flight Strikes Drone at 3,000 Feet Over San Diego, FAA Investigates
A United Airlines Boeing 737, operating as Flight 1980 from San Francisco to San Diego, reportedly struck a drone at approximately 3,000 feet during its approach to San Diego International Airport. The incident occurred on April 29, 2026, and was captured in audio recordings between the pilot and air traffic control. The pilot described the drone as small, red, and shiny. Despite the collision, the aircraft landed safely with no reported injuries or damage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about drone activity in controlled airspace. The occurrence of such incidents, although rare, has been increasing, prompting discussions about the safety and regulation of drones near airports. 
