United Flight Crew Reports Drone Sighting Near San Diego International Airport

April 30, 2026 — A United Airlines flight crew reported observing a drone in the airspace as their Boeing 737 aircraft approached San Diego International Airport (SAN) on Wednesday morning, April 29, 2026. The incident occurred as United Flight 1980 was preparing for landing, prompting immediate alerts to air traffic control and other pilots in the vicinity.

Incident Details and Response

The crew of United Flight 1980, originating from San Francisco, reported the drone sighting at approximately 8:20 a.m. local time. According to air-traffic control audio obtained by ABC 10News, the pilots described seeing a "small, shiny red drone" positioned approximately 1,000 feet below their aircraft, which was operating at an altitude of about 4,000 feet.

Following the report, air traffic control broadcast alerts to other aircraft; however, no additional drone sightings were subsequently reported by other pilots.

Aircraft and Passenger Safety Confirmed

United Airlines confirmed that the Boeing 737, carrying 48 passengers and six crew members, landed safely at San Diego International Airport. All passengers disembarked without incident, and a subsequent inspection of the aircraft revealed no damage. The airline emphasized that the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew were maintained throughout the event.

Concerns Regarding Airspace Regulations

The incident has intensified discussions regarding drone operations in controlled airspace. Brady Spear, a San Diego-based drone operator for Spearhead Media, noted that while geo-fencing regulations have evolved, strict guidelines remain in place for drone pilots. Spear highlighted that operating drones near airports is highly restricted and typically requires explicit authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Spear expressed concern over the reported altitude of the drone: "In the areas that