Kite strikes United flight during landing at D.C. airport

On March 29, 2025, a United Airlines flight from Houston reportedly struck a kite while attempting to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. The aircraft, designated Flight 654, was carrying 126 passengers and five crew members when the incident occurred around 4 p.m. EDT. Witnesses at Gravelly Point park, located just north of the airport runway, noted numerous kites flying in the restricted airspace as commercial aircraft approached for landing. Despite concerns from bystanders regarding potential damage to the plane, United Airlines confirmed that the aircraft landed safely, and upon inspection, there was no damage reported. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police responded to the scene, having received multiple reports about kite-flying in the vicinity. Officials quickly confiscated the kite from a family present in the area since kite flying is prohibited at Gravelly Point due to safety hazards for low-flying aircraft. Eyewitness accounts described a chaotic scene as police arrived with emergency lights to interview the family, which included an adult and a child, who were flying the kite. However, no charges were filed against them, and the kite was returned shortly after the incident. Federal regulations explicitly ban kite-flying near airports to prevent interference with landing aircraft. As the investigation unfolded, it was highlighted that the kite had been flying over the park at a height approximately 100 feet above ground, putting it directly in the flight path of incoming planes. Observers shared how the kite appeared progressively higher while being controlled by the adults, leading to concerns about aviation safety in the area. The presence of multiple kites raised alarms for many, particularly in light of previous close calls reported at D.C. airports. With ongoing discussions surrounding aviation safety, particularly after various high-profile incidents in recent years, this event ignited further scrutiny regarding compliance with kite-flying regulations. Although the turbulence surrounding this occurrence was significant, the incident thankfully concluded without physical harm or damage to the aircraft. As investigations continue, officials reiterate the critical importance of adhering to safety rules at and around airports to ensure the safety of all passengers and air traffic.