1.3 NM southeast of Handcross VRP, West Sussex, on approach to Gatwick, United Kingdom
The "Flying Saucer" Beside an A319 Over Handcross (UK Airprox 2026064)
At 10:30 UTC on 29 April 2026, an A319 pilot descending through about 8,500 ft near Handcross reported a disc or 'flying saucer'-shaped object with darker rim markings passing the right wing in the opposite direction at the same level, estimated 100–300 ft away. NATS found no associated radar contac
Why This Case Matters
A strong modern aviation-safety case because the sighting was made by a professional flight crew, reported immediately to ATC and independently reviewed by the UK Airprox Board with radar checks.
Chronology
- 29 Apr 2026 10:30 UTC A319 descending/turning near Handcross
- pilot sees disc-shaped suspected drone at same level
- estimated 100–300 ft right-wing separation
- crew reports to Gatwick ATC; following traffic warned
- NATS radar review finds no corresponding contact
- UKAB reviews 17 Jun and classifies Airprox 2026064 Risk C
The Witnesses
Evidence
The following evidence types are documented for this case:
Conventional explanations: Drone is the pilot's own leading possibility and known drone activity was reportedly noted in area information; balloon or other small airborne object also remain possible. Lack of radar contact is compatible with a small drone/balloon and is not evidence of extraordinary performance.
What Remains Unresolved
- Object identity
- actual size/range
- whether local drone activity was related
- launch/operator
- exact relative trajectory
- whether any airport surveillance captured it.
Key Takeaways
- UKAB documents a genuine unidentified airspace incursion and reduced safety, not an extraterrestrial craft. The unusually close pilot estimate makes it important even if ultimately prosaic.
Sources
Primary and secondary sources for this case file: