United Airlines Boeing 767 from Venice clipped a 15‑foot light pole near Newark Liberty International Airport, sending debris onto a tractor‑trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike. The incident produced no injuries to the 220‑passenger flight, but the jet sustained substantial fuselage damage, including a nearly four‑foot puncture and marked landing‑gear tire.

Co‑pilot warned captain that the aircraft was “slow and a little low” as gusty winds pushed the jet off course during its approach. The captain heard a “thump” just before touchdown, while flight attendants reported a “loud bang.” Investigators recovered data from the flight‑data and cockpit‑voice recorders to confirm the impact.

Truck driver Warren Boardley sustained minor injuries after his vehicle, carrying bread and rolls, suffered a major puncture and windshield holes from the falling pole. Northeast Foods, Boardley's employer, has not commented, and United Airlines declined to weigh in. The National Transportation Safety Board will continue its probe, which could influence future runway safety protocols and airline maintenance standards. The incident highlights the fragility of airport infrastructure and may prompt airlines to reassess approach procedures during turbulent conditions.