Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness
Inflight Event / Encounter Object
General None Reported / Taken
Human Factors
I was the PM for this flight. We were on a radar vector for the ILS 09 at MIA. We were turned to a base to intercept the localizer. The aircraft was at approximately 3000 MSL; configuration 1; gear up. The PF requested that I 'extend a line' for the final approach course. While I was 'heads down' the PF asked 'Did you see that?' I heard a muffled thud that seemed to emanate from the bottom of the aircraft. The PM stated that he saw an object that possibly struck the aircraft. He was certain that it was not a bird. The aircraft systems were cross checked and all indications were normal and there were no adverse flight characteristics. ATC was informed of the event and we landed without incident. An entry was made in the AML and maintenance and dispatch were informed of the event. This flight was returning from an international destination therefore we were not permitted to conduct a post flight inspection.This event occurred due to a rapid closure rate of a small inanimate object that may have intentionally or unintentionally been released into Class B airspace.
While on base leg to RWY09 at KMIA; 3;000 MSL; 210 KIAS; Flaps 1 and gear up; I was pilot flying and noticed a small airborne object similar in shape and size of a small drone; directly in front of the aircraft. A second later the object passed under the aircraft and myself and the First Officer heard a soft thump as the object impacted or glanced off the underside of the aircraft. All aircraft flight controls and engine parameters remained normal. A few moments later we received a ECAM caution message pertaining to the radar altimeter. It is unclear if this was related to the drone strike or coincidental. After we parked at the gate; Customs/Border control forbid us to leave the gate and inspect the aircraft. Entry was made in the logbook and aircraft turned over to maintenance.
Air carrier flight crew reported a possible collision with a UAV on approach to MIA.