Flames and fur cause flight delay: United jet turns back after dramatic engine scare

Published on April 18, 2025

In a harrowing incident that underscores the critical importance of aviation safety protocols, a United Airlines flight was forced to return to its departure airport after a piece of the engine’s sound-dampening outer liner detached during takeoff. The event, which occurred on June 20, 2024, is part of a series of mechanical issues that have recently plagued the airline, prompting increased scrutiny from federal regulators.

The Incident Unfolds
On the morning of June 20, 2024, United Airlines Flight 1118, an Airbus A320, departed from Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut, en route to Denver, Colorado. Shortly after takeoff, the flight crew reported hearing an “abnormal noise,” which was later identified as the detachment of a portion of the engine’s sound-dampening outer liner. This component was subsequently found on the runway at Bradley International Airport .

Recognizing the potential severity of the situation, the pilots made the decision to return to Bradley International Airport. The aircraft landed safely, and all 124 passengers and five crew members disembarked without incident. United Airlines promptly arranged alternative flights for the affected passengers .

A Pattern of Mechanical Issues
This incident is not isolated. Earlier in the year, United Airlines experienced a series of mechanical failures that have raised concerns about the airline’s maintenance practices. These include:

Engine Fire: A United Airlines flight from Houston to Rio de Janeiro was forced to return to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport after one of the plane’s engines reportedly caught fire shortly after takeoff. The flight landed safely, and no injuries were reported .
Engine Cover Detachment: In a separate incident, a United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Honolulu experienced the detachment of an engine cover mid-flight. Passengers reported hearing a loud bang, and the plane began to shake. The aircraft landed safely in Honolulu .
Fuselage Panel Loss: A United Airlines Boeing 737 lost an external panel during a flight from Houston to Florida. The aircraft returned to the airport shortly after takeoff, and no injuries were reported .
These incidents have prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to increase its oversight of United Airlines. The FAA has been reviewing the airline’s safety procedures and maintenance practices to ensure compliance with federal regulations .

United Airlines’ Response
In response to these incidents, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has assured travelers that the airline is committed to maintaining the highest safety standards. He emphasized that the recent mechanical issues are unrelated and that the airline is conducting a thorough review of its safety training for employees .

“We are embracing the FAA’s evaluation as an opportunity to improve what we consider to be an already high level of safety,” Kirby stated. The airline has also begun the process of adding new planes and routes, indicating a commitment to growth while prioritizing safety .

Passenger Experiences
Passengers aboard Flight 1118 recounted the tense moments following the engine scare. One passenger described the cabin being illuminated with red, orange, and yellow colors as the engine was engulfed in flames. The individual began composing a goodbye message to his wife, believing the situation could be fatal .

Despite the frightening experience, passengers praised the flight crew for their professionalism and swift action in ensuring everyone’s safety. United Airlines provided affected passengers with a $200 flight credit and a $15 meal voucher as compensation .

Regulatory Implications
The FAA’s increased oversight of United Airlines reflects a broader concern within the aviation industry regarding safety protocols and maintenance practices. The agency has been conducting a comprehensive review of the airline’s operations, which has temporarily limited United’s ability to expand its fleet and add new routes .

This scrutiny comes amid a series of safety incidents across various airlines, prompting the FAA to hold its first safety summit in 14 years. The summit brought together aviation personnel to discuss potential causes of recent near-collisions and other safety concerns .

Conclusion
The recent engine scare aboard United Airlines Flight 1118 serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of rigorous maintenance and safety protocols in the aviation industry. While the airline has taken steps to address these issues and reassure passengers, the incidents have highlighted the need for continuous oversight and improvement.

As United Airlines works to restore confidence among travelers and regulators alike, the broader aviation community must remain vigilant in upholding the highest safety standards to ensure the well-being of all passengers and crew members.