A United Airlines flight from Houston struck a kite while landing at Washington Reagan National Airport on Saturday, but landed safely with all 126 passengers and five crew members unharmed.

The incident, which occurred around 4 p.m. EDT, raises safety concerns at the busy airport, where kite-flying is prohibited due to potential hazards. Witnesses reported the kite flying about 100 feet above ground level in the flight path, prompting authorities to confiscate it, although no injuries or damage were reported. This event follows a recent close call involving a military jet, underscoring the critical importance of air safety measures at Reagan National.

Flight 654, a Boeing 737 operated by United Airlines, was approaching Washington Reagan National Airport when it collided with the kite. The airline confirmed that despite the unusual incident, the aircraft landed without any issues. The passengers onboard were not put in danger, and the flight proceeded as scheduled after landing.

Eyewitnesses situated at Gravelly Point Park observed the kite in the flight path moments before the incident. One witness stated they could clearly see the bright colors of the kite, which seemed to be flying without any apparent control. The presence of the kite in the flight path highlights ongoing concerns regarding unauthorized activities near airports.

The Washington Metropolitan Airports Authority Police responded promptly to the incident and confiscated the kite. After further assessment, authorities returned the kite to its owner, though the act of flying kites in that area remains a violation of safety regulations designed to protect airborne flights. Authorities emphasize that the rules prohibiting kite-flying are in place to prevent potential hazards like midair collisions.

Kite-flying poses particular risks in proximity to the airport due to the altitude at which aircraft operate during landing and takeoff. At around 100 feet above ground, the kite's location fell well within the vertical pathway of landing aircraft, sparking safety warnings. Experts note that incidents like this could endanger not only passengers and crew aboard descending flights but also individuals on the ground.

In the wake of the kite incident, the airport's recent safety record comes under renewed scrutiny. This event follows a close encounter involving a Delta flight and a military jet, which raised alarms about air traffic control in the busy airspace surrounding Reagan National Airport. The FAA and local airport authorities are under increased pressure to enhance safety protocols and enforce regulations to mitigate activities that could lead to further dangerous situations.

Officials are keen on reminding the public about the importance of adhering to safety guidelines around airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been working with local authorities to ensure that enforcement measures are robust and that violators are dealt with accordingly. Kite-flying is prohibited in the area near the airport due to safety concerns.

No injuries were reported from the incident involving Flight 654, which is a fortunate outcome, especially in light of the potential consequences. However, the episode serves as a critical reminder of the need for vigilance and adherence to aviation regulations by both the public and aviation authorities. As flights navigate the airspace near populated areas, continuous monitoring and enforcement remain vital for ensuring passenger safety.