On February 19th, 2024, United Airlines flight UA-354, a Boeing 757-200 (registration N57111), was en route from San Francisco, California, to Boston, Massachusetts, with 165 passengers on board. However, what should have been a routine flight took an unexpected turn when passengers noticed damage to the right-hand wing slats.
The Incident
At approximately 100 nautical miles northwest of Denver, Colorado, while cruising at an altitude of 31,000 feet, the flight crew made a critical decision. Concerned about the observed slat damage, they opted to divert the aircraft to Denver International Airport (DEN). The safety of passengers and crew remained the top priority.
The Landing
The skilled crew executed a safe landing on Denver’s runway 16R, approximately 25 minutes after the decision to divert. The passengers disembarked, and the aircraft was thoroughly inspected. The damaged slat, located on the right-hand side inboard section of the wing, had broken off during takeoff from San Francisco.
FAA Report
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) later confirmed that the right-hand side inboard slat had indeed broken off during departure from San Francisco. The incident was classified as an “incident” rather than an “accident,” emphasizing the crew’s swift and effective response. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.
Aircraft Replacement
United Airlines promptly arranged for a replacement Boeing 757-200 (registration N34137) to continue the journey to Boston. Despite the delay of approximately 3.5 hours, passengers reached their destination safely.
Conclusion
The UA-354 incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance and professionalism required in aviation. The crew’s quick thinking and adherence to safety protocols ensured a positive outcome. As aviation enthusiasts, we appreciate the dedication of flight crews and the robust systems that protect passengers even in challenging situations.
In the aftermath of this incident, airlines and regulatory bodies will undoubtedly review procedures and maintenance practices to prevent similar occurrences. The skies remain a dynamic environment, and incidents like this underscore the importance of continuous training and vigilance.
Let us commend the crew of UA-354 for their exemplary handling of the situation, ensuring that safety remained paramount throughout the flight. As travelers, we can rest assured that the aviation industry remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.
