A SkyWest Airlines regional jet operating a United Express service experienced a runway contact incident during a go-around at Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport on December 29, 2025.
Flight UA5532, operated by SkyWest using a Canadair Regional Jet CRJ-700 registered N779SK, had departed Chicago O’Hare bound for Charlottesville. During the approach to runway 21, the aircraft initiated a go-around from very low altitude. During the maneuver, the aircraft’s right-hand wingtip struck the runway surface.
Following the wingtip strike, the crew repositioned the aircraft for another approach to runway 21. The second approach and landing were completed safely approximately 15 minutes later. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
The Federal Aviation Administration later confirmed the incident, stating: “Aircraft right wing struck the runway during landing, Charlottesville, VA.” However, the FAA report initially identified the aircraft as N603SK, which was later determined to be incorrect. The registration N603SK belonged to a different aircraft that operated a subsequent United Express flight, UA5610, into Charlottesville.
After the incident, the affected CRJ-700 remained on the ground in Charlottesville for about 49 hours while inspections and assessments were carried out. The aircraft was later ferried to Tucson, Arizona.
SkyWest stated that the crew followed standard operating procedures and that the incident is subject to further review. Passenger safety was not compromised, and airport operations continued with minimal disruption.
