EMB ERJ 170/175 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Confusion; Distraction
Airspace Violation All Types; Conflict Airborne Conflict; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Inflight Event / Encounter Object
Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Environment - Non Weather Related; Aircraft; Human Factors; Procedure
While on final approximately 1;600 feet MSL/4.0 NM from the airport; I pointed out what at first appeared to be a black balloon rapidly climbing and approaching us. The object flew above us; so no evasive action was required. As we got closer to the object; I realized it was not a balloon; but a large sized; black in color; remote controlled drone. I could see the angular shape of the frame. It was approximately 200 feet above us on final. We were on the visual approach; using the RNAV approach for guidance. We reported the sighting to tower; and when on the ground; clarified the position with ground control to pass it along to other aircraft. As with lasers; drones need to be regulated strictly; swiftly and quickly. Unfortunately; it will take a fatal accident to change the view of how deadly drones can be to any aircraft; especially passenger carrying aircraft. It is clear to me that current regulations in place are not strong enough to prevent people from flying drones. Something needs to change before there is a loss of life.
EMB-175 Captain reported a close UAS encounter at 1;600 feet on a four mile final to Runway 27 at SAN.