UFO Over Area 51? Dorito Shaped Mystery Aircraft Caught on Camera Sparks Speculation
An aircraft with an unusual triangular or Dorito like shape has been spotted flying at high speed over Groom Lake, better known as Area 51, reigniting speculation about secret US military aviation programs.
New Delhi, January 23: An aircraft with an unusual triangular or Dorito like shape has been spotted flying at high speed over Groom Lake, better known as Area 51, reigniting speculation about secret US military aviation programs. The sighting was reported by The Aviationist, citing well known planespotter Anders Ottosson, who was monitoring nighttime air activity near the highly restricted Nevada test base in the early hours of January 14, 2026.
Anything seen near Area 51 tends to raise eyebrows, and this incident was no exception. While camping near Groom Lake, Ottosson noticed what he described as a fast moving, sharply triangular craft with no visible navigation lights. Because of its distinct shape, spotters often nickname such aircraft “Dorito” shaped.
Mysterious Dorito Shaped Aircraft Spotted Over Area 51
Ottosson managed to capture infrared images using a thermal camera. The images quickly went viral on social media, fueling debates ranging from advanced stealth projects to more exotic theories. However, there has been no official confirmation from US authorities about the aircraft’s identity or purpose. UFOs Spotted Over Nuclear Bases? Marco Rubio Claims Unidentified Objects Hover Above Restricted US Airspace in New Documentary ‘The Age of Disclosure’.
According to The Aviationist, the craft seen in the infrared footage bears similarities to a triangular aircraft photographed near Wichita in 2014, suggesting this may not be the first appearance of such a design. This history strengthens the theory that the aircraft could be a classified US military platform currently in a testing phase. Alien Attack Turned Soviet Soldiers to Stone? CIA Website Reveals Soviet-Era Document Detailing Alleged Attack by Aliens After 'UFO' Was Shot Down.
Recalling the experience, Ottosson said he initially heard what sounded like multiple aircraft operating in the valley. With no visible lights in the sky, he began scanning the area with his thermal camera. He later observed a B-2 Spirit flying overhead, followed by a second contrail over a ridge near Groom Lake that appeared different.
Determined to get a clearer look, Ottosson moved closer to the base and continued observing. He noted that the trailing edge of the mysterious aircraft looked unlike the B-2, lacking the bomber’s distinctive serrated design, which further suggested it was a different and possibly newer platform.
While speculation continues, aviation experts caution that Groom Lake remains the primary testing ground for next generation US aircraft. Until official details emerge, the Dorito shaped aircraft will remain one of the latest mysteries linked to Area 51.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 23, 2026 10:25 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).