Tractor-Trailer and Light Post Damaged as Plane Lands at Newark Airport

An investigation is underway after a United Airlines flight destined for Newark Liberty International Airport on Sunday struck a light pole while landing, damaging the pole and a tractor-trailer traveling along the New Jersey Turnpike, the authorities said.

The unidentified driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to a hospital with minor injuries and has since been discharged, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said on Sunday.

No passengers or crew members aboard the flight were injured, United Airlines said.

United Airlines Flight 169 was traveling from Venice Marco Polo Airport in Italy and was on its final approach to Runway 29 at Newark when the aircraft struck an object over the southbound New Jersey Turnpike at about 2 p.m. on Sunday, the Port Authority said.

The Federal Aviation Administration said the plane struck a light post.

There were 221 passengers and 10 crew members on board, United Airlines said.

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/03/nyregion/newark-airport-plane-light-pole.html