A newly released UK Air Safety Board report has concluded that a reported 'flying saucer' sighting near London Gatwick Airport reduced the safety of a passenger jet after the unidentified object passed within an estimated 100 to 300 feet of the aircraft during its approach in April. The report is based on a pilot's account of the encounter, though investigators did not identify the object.
To recall, the UK Airprox Board investigates near-miss incidents involving aircraft to improve aviation safety across the UK. Its latest report covers several incidents recorded in April, including a separate drone encounter near Heathrow Airport, highlighting the continued risks posed by unidentified objects operating close to busy flight paths.
