United Airlines Flight Strikes Lamppost and Delivery Truck During Newark Landing
Incident Overview
A United Airlines flight encountered a collision with a lamppost and a delivery truck while landing at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey on Sunday. The Boeing 767, arriving from Venice, Italy, was involved in the incident as it approached the runway.
The Port Authority Police Department confirmed that despite the accident, the flight landed safely. NBC News reported that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision has been initiated. There were no reported injuries among the 221 passengers and 10 crew members aboard the aircraft.
Driver’s Condition
The driver of the delivery truck, named Warren Boardley, sustained minor injuries and was subsequently hospitalized. He has since been released from medical care. The collision occurred while the truck was on its way to a Smith’s Bakery depot in Newark and was approaching an exit when the crash transpired.
Investigation Details
United Airlines stated that they would carry out a thorough flight safety investigation following the incident and noted that the flight crew involved in the landing has been removed from service during the inquiry. According to preliminary findings from the New Jersey State Police, initial reports suggest that the plane’s landing gear tyre and the underside made contact with both the lamppost and the delivery truck.
Furthermore, authorities indicated that the lamppost subsequently struck a Jeep traveling along the turnpike. This detail has heightened concerns over the broader implications of the incident.
Account from the Truck Company
Chuck Paterakis, senior vice president of transportation and logistics at H&S Bakery, located in Baltimore, provided insights into the incident. He reported to CBS Baltimore that one of the aircraft’s landing gear tyres broke through the truck’s window and windshield, resulting in significant damage to the vehicle.
Viral Video Reaction
A dashcam video capturing the moment of impact has gained viral status, accumulating over three million views online. The footage showcases the moment the glass broke upon collision, marked by a loud noise as the truck driver proceeded along the turnpike.
Social media users have reacted to the video, with comments highlighting the driver’s luck and expressing relief that no serious injuries occurred among the passengers. One user remarked on the significant financial implications for the truck driver due to the accident, while others praised the flight crew for maintaining control after the collision.
