WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal investigators have launched a probe after a United Airlines flight was forced to divert when the aircraft’s windscreen cracked midair, prompting an emergency landing last week.
NTSB Investigating the Incident
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed on Sunday, October 19, that it is investigating the incident involving a United Airlines Boeing 737-8.
According to the agency’s statement, investigators are gathering radar data, weather information, and flight recorder evidence to determine what caused the crack. The damaged windscreen has been sent to a laboratory for examination.
“We’re conducting a full materials analysis to identify the nature and cause of the fracture,” an NTSB spokesperson said.
Flight Diverted to Salt Lake City
United Flight 1093 departed from Denver on October 16 bound for Los Angeles when the flight crew noticed a visible crack in the cockpit windscreen.
As a safety precaution, the pilots diverted the plane to Salt Lake City International Airport, where it landed without incident.
United Airlines confirmed that there were 134 passengers and six crew members on board. After landing safely, passengers were transferred to another aircraft to continue their journey to Los Angeles.
“The flight landed safely and a replacement aircraft was arranged for customers to reach their destination,” United Airlines said in a statement.
Separate Incident at Chicago O’Hare
Just one day later, two United Airlines planes made contact on the tarmac at Chicago O’Hare International Airport when the wing of one aircraft clipped the rear stabilizer of another.
No injuries were reported, and both aircraft were taken out of service for inspection.
The airline emphasized that safety remains its top priority, and maintenance teams are conducting reviews of both incidents.
Airport Delays Amid Government Shutdown
These events come at a time when the ongoing U.S. government shutdown is beginning to impact airport operations nationwide.
With TSA officers and air traffic controllers working without pay, several major airports — including Denver, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles — have reported increasing delays and reduced staffing levels.
Travel experts warn that if the shutdown continues, flight disruptions could grow more frequent.
“The system is under tremendous strain. Even minor incidents can have ripple effects when staffing is stretched thin,” said an aviation analyst.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The NTSB’s laboratory analysis of the cracked windscreen will focus on structural integrity, manufacturing data, and maintenance history to determine whether the damage resulted from stress, fatigue, or a manufacturing defect.
The agency has not yet released an official timeline for the investigation, but preliminary findings are expected within several weeks.
