Kite Hits United Plane Near Washington Airport, Gets Confiscated

A United Airlines flight approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport encountered an unusual incident when a kite reportedly made contact with the aircraft.

The event occurred on Saturday afternoon as United Flight 654, traveling from Houston, was preparing to land. The plane landed safely, and no damage or injuries were reported.

The kite, flown from Gravelly Point, a park near the airport, was confiscated by airport police. Kite flying is prohibited in this area due to its proximity to low-flying aircraft.

Witnesses described seeing the kite rise higher than expected before it struck the plane near the fuselage. Authorities issued warnings to park-goers about the dangers of flying kites in restricted airspace, emphasizing the potential risks to aviation safety.