The Chiles-Whitted UFO Encounter

The Chiles-Whitted UFO encounter is considered one of the most significant UFO sightings in American history. Here are the key points of the incident:

1. The sighting: On the evening of July 24, 1948, pilots Clarence S. Chiles and Charles Whitted were flying their Eastern Air Lines DC-3 plane over Montgomery, Alabama when they spotted a strange object in the sky. The object was described as being torpedo-shaped with flames coming out of the back.
2. Close encounter: As the pilots approached the object, it appeared to suddenly turn and fly directly towards them. The object then passed within an estimated 300 feet of the plane before disappearing from view.
3. Report and investigation: The pilots reported the sighting to air traffic control, who subsequently reported the incident to the U.S. Air Force. An official investigation was launched, with the Air Force ultimately concluding that the object was a meteor.
4. Controversy: Despite the Air Force’s explanation, many experts and researchers have disputed this conclusion. The sighting has been the subject of numerous books, articles, and documentaries, with many suggesting that the object was a genuine UFO.
5. Unique details: One unique detail about the Chiles-Whitted UFO encounter is the fact that the object came extremely close to the plane, with the pilots reporting feeling the heat from the object’s flames. Additionally, the object was described as being metallic in appearance and making a distinct sound.
6. Books and resources: The Chiles-Whitted UFO encounter has been the subject of numerous books, articles, and documentaries. One notable example is the 1997 book “UFOs and the National Security State: Chronology of a Cover-Up, 1941-1973” by Richard Dolan, which devotes several pages to the incident.
7. Claims and theories: Some have suggested that the Chiles-Whitted UFO encounter is proof of extraterrestrial life or advanced technology, while others have speculated that the object was a secret military aircraft. The incident has also been cited as an example of a genuine close encounter between humans and a UFO.