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Balloon detected by NORAD over Utah intercepted by fighters

NORAD is still tracking the craft, the agency said in a statement.

(North American Aerospace Defense Command via AP) A Russian Tu-142 maritime reconnaissance aircraft, top right, is intercepted near the Alaska coastline in this 2020 photo released by NORAD. Aerospace defense fighters intercepted a small balloon traveling over Utah, NORAD announced Friday.

  | Feb. 23, 2024, 11:06 p.m.
| Updated: Feb. 24, 2024, 12:27 a.m.

Aerospace defense fighters intercepted a small balloon traveling over Utah, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) announced Friday.

NORAD’s announcement did not further specify when or where the interception occurred. The agency in a news release said the balloon was detected at an altitude varying between 43,000 and 45,000 feet.

The fighters determined the balloon was “not maneuverable” and did not pose a national security threat, the release stated.

NORAD will continue to “track and monitor” the craft, the release added. A spokesperson for Gov. Spencer Cox said Friday evening that information is “limited” at this point, but the governor’s office has been in touch with local military officials and will continue to monitor the situation.

NORAD initially detected the balloon in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the release stated. The FAA also determined the balloon did not pose a hazard to flight safety.

NORAD said it remains in close contact with the FAA to continue to ensure flight safety. The FAA when asked for more information Friday deferred comment to NORAD.