Kenneth Arnold UFO Sighting: First Flying Saucer Report

The Historic Sighting

What did Kenneth Arnold see on June 24, 1947?

Kenneth Arnold's sighting represents the foundational event of the modern UFO era:

Flight Details:

• Date/Time: June 24, 1947, approximately 3:00 PM
• Location: Near Mount Rainier, Washington State
• Aircraft: CallAir A-2 private plane
• Altitude: 9,200 feet
• Weather: Clear visibility, perfect flying conditions

Object Description:

• Number: Nine disc-shaped objects in formation
• Shape: Crescent or bat-wing appearance
• Size: Estimated 45-50 feet in diameter
• Speed: Calculated at 1,700 mph (supersonic for 1947)
• Flight Pattern: Chain formation, undulating motion

Arnold's Background and Credibility

Who was Kenneth Arnold?

Kenneth Arnold's professional background lent credibility to his extraordinary report:

Professional Qualifications:

• Experience: 9,000+ flight hours as private pilot
• Business: Successful businessman and fire equipment salesman
• Military Service: World War II aviation experience
• Reputation: Well-known and respected in aviation community
• Search Mission: Searching for missing military transport aircraft

Character Assessment:

• No history of publicity seeking or unusual claims
• Reluctant to discuss sighting initially
• Consistent story maintained for decades
• Suffered ridicule and business losses due to report
• Never profited significantly from UFO fame

Impact on UFO Phenomenon

How did Arnold's sighting change UFO history?

The Kenneth Arnold sighting created the foundation for modern UFO research and culture:

Immediate Effects:

• "Flying Saucer" Term: Arnold's description of motion "like saucers skipping on water"
• Media Attention: National and international news coverage
• Copycat Reports: Hundreds of similar sightings reported nationwide
• Military Interest: U.S. Air Force began investigating UFO reports
• Public Fascination: UFOs entered popular consciousness permanently