Weather Balloon, Not Space Debris, Strikes United Airlines Plane
In a recent incident involving a United Airlines plane, a mysterious object collided with the aircraft. Initial reports indicated that a pilot described the object as “space debris.” However, further investigation revealed that the object was actually a weather balloon.
Weather Balloon Collision with United Airlines Plane
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently looking into the incident. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, although one pilot sustained minor injuries, including cuts from the windshield glass.
Details of the Weather Balloon
- The weather balloon was identified as being part of WindBorne’s fleet.
- Each balloon weighs approximately 2.6 pounds (1.2 kg).
- WindBorne balloons collect atmospheric data, including temperature, wind, and pressure.
This data is essential for developing accurate weather models used in forecasting. WindBorne has emphasized that their balloons are lightweight, and such collisions are highly improbable.
Safety Assurances from WindBorne
WindBorne has stated that its Global Sounding Balloons (GSBs) do not pose a threat to aircraft. Their assurance comes from compliance with all applicable airspace regulations. The company maintains active communication with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to adhere to safety standards.
Additionally, WindBorne offers government partners access to its real-time balloon tracking system known as WindBorne Live. This system actively monitors balloon movements, ensuring safe operations in shared airspace.
The incident has raised awareness regarding the operational practices of weather balloons. As investigations continue, authorities will examine how best to prevent future occurrences.
