United Airlines Flight Safely Lands at Reagan National After Encountering Kite in Restricted Airspace

A United Airlines flight reportedly encountered a kite while landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Saturday afternoon. The incident involved United Flight 654, a Boeing 737 arriving from Houston, which safely landed with 126 passengers and five crew members on board. The airline confirmed awareness of the reports and stated that the flight landed without incident at approximately 4 p.m. EDT.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department, responsible for patrolling both Reagan National and Dulles International Airports, responded to the situation by confiscating a kite from an individual at Gravelly Point. This area, located along the banks of the Potomac River in Virginia, is known for its proximity to the airport’s flight path. According to Air Traffic Control audio, pilots reported the kite flying approximately 100 feet above the ground, directly in the path of incoming aircraft.

The department emphasized that kite-flying is prohibited at Gravelly Point due to the low-flying aircraft that frequently land at the nearby airport. This restriction is in place to ensure the safety of both air travelers and those on the ground. The kite was described as being “briefly confiscated” after the incident, highlighting the importance of adhering to the regulations in place for restricted airspace.

The incident underscores the potential risks associated with flying kites in areas close to airports. While no injuries or significant damage were reported, the event serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and compliance with airspace regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.