Flight Diverted Due to Bomb Threat

A United Airlines flight traveling across the country was suddenly diverted to Chicago on Wednesday morning following the discovery of a bomb threat in the plane’s bathroom. The flight, originally departing from Newark Liberty International Airport and bound for Los Angeles, landed at O’Hare Airport around 7:45 a.m. after a note claiming the plane would explode was found in the bathroom, according to officials and a passenger.

More than 200 passengers and crew members were evacuated from the plane as a precautionary measure. The Federal Aviation Administration and United Airlines both confirmed that the flight was diverted due to a “security” concern.

Inspection and Investigation

United Airlines Flight 1533 was thoroughly inspected by a bomb-sniffing dog, which identified a suspicious bag. This bag was then removed by a robot. The airline source stated that the bomb-sniffing dog linked the bag to the threatening note found in the bathroom.

Tense Moments Onboard

Passengers recounted tense moments on the plane following the pilot’s announcement about the diversion. Passenger Ian O’Connor, a best-selling author and sports columnist, stated that flight attendants were instructing individuals to remain seated when some passengers tried to use the bathroom. O’Connor described the atmosphere on the plane as becoming “very quiet” and shared the fear-inducing thoughts that crossed his mind during the incident.

Safe Landing and Ongoing Investigation

Upon landing, passengers were instructed to exit the plane without taking any personal belongings. The plane was parked at a distance from the terminal, and emergency vehicles were present to ensure the safety of all individuals onboard. Subsequently, a crew member conveyed to the passengers that a threatening note had been discovered, prompting the need for law enforcement to investigate. At this time, it remains unclear if anyone has been taken into custody. The FBI’s Chicago field office expressed that there is currently no indication of an imminent threat to public safety.

Similar Incident Earlier in the Week

This incident follows a threat issued against Air Canada 8657 on Monday, which led to the evacuation and subsequent clearance of the plane. Newark Airport police received a report of the threat, and all passengers were safely removed as a precautionary measure.

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