In the latest of a series of troubling incidents for United Airlines, a Boeing 757-200 lost a wheel during takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Monday. United Flight 1001, bound for Denver, experienced the issue shortly after departing at 7:15 a.m. Despite the lost wheel, the aircraft landed safely in Denver at approximately 10 a.m. with no reported injuries among the 174 passengers and crew.
"The wheel has been recovered in Los Angeles, and we are investigating what caused this event," a United Airlines spokesperson stated. Details about the wheel's dislocation are still under investigation.
This incident follows a similar event in March, when another United Airlines flight lost a wheel after takeoff, leading to the wheel damaging several cars in a parking lot. This string of mechanical failures has prompted increased oversight from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is closely examining United's operations. The FAA confirmed it is investigating Monday's incident as well.
FAA spokesperson Ian Gregor noted that United Airlines has been under heightened scrutiny since earlier this year due to various mechanical issues, including an engine fire, stuck rudder pedals, and other missing or damaged parts.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby addressed these ongoing issues in a March letter to customers, emphasizing the airline's commitment to safety and the steps being taken to address these problems. Kirby highlighted the importance of understanding each incident to improve safety training and procedures.
Here is a timeline of United Airlines incidents reported this year:
- July 8: Boeing 757-200 loses a wheel on takeoff, but lands safely.
- March 18: United Airlines CEO acknowledges recent safety issues.
- March 15: Missing panel discovered on a Boeing 737-800.
- March 8: Boeing 737 Max 8 tilts and rolls onto the grass, prompting evacuation.
- March 7: Boeing 777-200 loses a tire after takeoff, damaging parked cars.
- March 4: Engine fire mid-flight prompts an emergency landing.
- February 21: "Security issue" onboard prompts emergency landing.
- February 19: Boeing 757-200 diverted over a damaged wing.
- February 6: Boeing 737 Max 8 experiences stuck rudder pedals on landing roll.
Kirby reassured passengers that the airline is rigorously reviewing each case to prevent future occurrences, asserting, "While they are all unrelated, I want you to know that these incidents have our attention and have sharpened our focus."
As investigations continue, United Airlines remains under the FAA's watchful eye to ensure the safety and reliability of its operations.
