On December 7, 2024, two pilots reported fast-moving unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over Eugene, Oregon, during a recorded exchange with air traffic control.
The 44-minute audio revealed descriptions of red, circular lights moving erratically toward the ocean, then returning at various altitudes. One pilot noted the objects' extreme speeds and twisting, corkscrew patterns.
While flying west over the Willamette National Forest, a United Airlines flight (UA1596) was instructed to maneuver to avoid the UFOs. The pilot reported seeing multiple targets at different altitudes, stating, "it's pretty crazy."
At 8:46 p.m. PST, a MEDEVAC pilot also reported unusual activity, observing four lights moving in circles about 20 miles away. Shortly after, the pilot noted another red object zipping toward them at 1,000 feet, prompting the controller to authorize evasive action.
A Reddit user later claimed to have captured images and videos of the lights, contributing to ongoing speculation about the nature of these sightings, which coincide with recent drone activity investigations by the FBI near military sites.