FBI Seeks Public Help in Finding Unmanned Aircraft

The FBI is seeking the public's help to identify the operator of a small unmanned aircraft that came within 200 feet of a plane on Monday.

According to the FBI, on March 4 at about 1:15 p.m., the pilot of Alitalia Flight 608 spotted a small unmanned aircraft while on approach to John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Alitalia flight was roughly three miles from runway 31R at an altitude of about 1,750 feet when the incident occurred.

The FBI is investigating the incident, looking to identify and locate the aircraft and its operator. The unnamed aircraft was described as black in color and no more than three feet wide with four propellers.

“The FBI is asking anyone with information about the unmanned aircraft or the operator to contact us,” said Special Agent in Charge John Giacalone. “Our paramount concern is the safety of aircraft passengers and crew.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 212-384-1000. Tipsters may remain anonymous.