A prominent airline had to alter its flight path dramatically following a reported ‘bomb scare.’ United Airlines flight UAL2092, originating in Chicago and destined for New York on April 18, was redirected to Pittsburgh in the morning. The aircraft signaled an in-flight emergency by issuing a 7700 squawk code after reaching its cruising altitude. Flightradar data displayed the aircraft deviating from its intended route towards Pittsburgh airport due to the perceived threat.
According to a flight tracking application, the plane cited a “‘possible bomb” as the reason for its diversion. The United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 activated the 7700 squawk code, with additional details communicated via ACARS messages, shedding light on the emergency diversion of United Airlines flight UA2092, as per reports from the Daily Star.
Amid concerns raised onboard, the Boeing 737 MAX 8, operating between Chicago O’Hare and New York LaGuardia, declared an emergency and diverted to Pittsburgh International Airport for a security sweep. Notably, the crew’s message stating “ONE SECOND COUNT PER BEEP / POSSIBLE BOMB” indicated a potential explosive threat, potentially related to a recurring beeping sound or a similar item. The communication also discussed diversion options, mentioning “CLE OR PIT” for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport or Pittsburgh, and “KORD KLGA” denoting the original flight route using ICAO airport codes.
A timestamp in the communication indicated the exchange occurred around 15:42 UTC (10:42 am local time in Chicago). In situations involving a reported “possible bomb,” standard protocol involves the crew squawking 7700 to notify air traffic control of a general emergency and receive priority for a prompt and safe landing.