Tajik Air Pilots Report UFO Encounter Over Kazakhstan

On January 27, 1994, Tajik Air pilots reported a UFO encounter while flying at 41,000 feet over Kazakhstan, describing the object as exhibiting extraordinary speed and maneuverability.

Published

June 16, 2026

Declassified

May 8, 2026

Source agency

U.S. Department of War

tajikairpilotsreportufoencounteroverkazakhstan

Opening summary

The January 27, 1994, encounter involving Tajik Air pilots over Kazakhstan presents a compelling case study in the ongoing discourse surrounding unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and their implications for aviation safety and national security. S. Department of State, highlights the challenges faced by aviators when confronted with phenomena that defy conventional understanding.

As detailed in the official report, the crew of a Tajik Air Boeing 747SP, led by Chief Pilot Ed Rhodes, observed a UFO at an altitude of 41,000 feet. The object, initially perceived as a bright light, approached the aircraft at a high speed from the eastern horizon. Over a span of 40 minutes, the pilots witnessed the object executing complex maneuvers, including circles and corkscrews, at velocities and gravitational forces beyond the capabilities of known aircraft technology.

Despite the darkness of the night, the pilots noted the object's light emitted a distinctive "bow wave," reminiscent of the…

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