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United Airlines flight UA169 collision with highway light pole and truck during Newark approach

Sequence & Resolution

Event Date05/03/2026
Level
Accident
CategoryObstacle Strike
Flight PhaseApproach
Technical Issue Details
A United Airlines Boeing 767-400 (N77066) performing flight UA169 from Venice (VCE) to Newark (EWR) with 218 passengers and 13 crew members on board was performing a circling visual approach to runway 29 at Newark Liberty International Airport.
While crossing over the I-95 highway approximately 220 meters (720 feet) before the runway threshold, the aircraft flew too low, and its landing gear and underbelly made contact with a highway light pole and the trailer of a bakery delivery truck.
Outcome / Handling
Despite the contact, the aircraft continued for a landing on runway 29 without further incident.
The crew subsequently reported they felt something right over the threshold and discovered a hole in the side of the fuselage after taxiing to the apron.
There were no injuries on board, but the truck driver sustained minor injuries.
Current Status
The truck and the aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Flight Information

Flight NumberUA169
Landing Runway29 (EWR)