Overview
- United Flight 169 from Venice clipped a 15‑foot light pole over the New Jersey Turnpike during its approach to Runway 29 on May 3, 2026, and debris from the pole struck a southbound tractor‑trailer.
- Cockpit voice and crew interviews show the first officer warned the captain the airplane was “slow” and “a little low” seconds before touchdown and no go‑around was executed.
- Flight data reviewed by the NTSB indicate the 767 remained below the normal glide path for about three‑quarters of a mile and crossed the Turnpike roughly 15–19 feet above the road.
- Investigators found substantial aft‑fuselage damage, including three punctures and tire slash marks, the incident has been classified as an accident, and the truck driver suffered minor injuries while no one on board was hurt.
- United has issued pilot guidance on short‑runway aimpoints and warned against the practice of 'ducking under' glide‑path indicators, and the NTSB will issue final findings and safety recommendations when the investigation concludes next year.