United Airlines flight returns due to engine issues; FAA investigates

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United Airlines flight returns due to engine issues; FAA investigates

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By Sky Industry News

Jan 1, 2025

A United Airlines Boeing 757 flying from Los Angeles to Kailua Kona International Airport in Hawaii was compelled to return to LAX due to an engine issue. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the matter.

On December 31, 2024, the aircraft registered as N78866 operated flight UA2373 from Los Angeles International Airport to Kailua Kona International Airport. Approximately an hour and a half into the flight, the crew reported an engine problem, prompting a diversion back to LAX. According to Flightradar24.com data, "United Airlines Flight 2373 returned safely to Los Angeles International Airport around 12 PM local time on Tuesday, December 31, after the crew reported an engine issue. The Boeing 757-300 was en route to Kona International Airport in Hawaii. The FAA will investigate."

A spokesperson for United Airlines confirmed that the plane landed back at LAX around 12:15 PM local time. All 226 passengers and seven crew members deplaned safely at a gate.

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Passengers were rebooked on another aircraft, with Flightradar24.com indicating that a different Boeing 757-300 transported them to their destination, arriving at approximately 6:31 PM.

The affected aircraft is a Boeing 757-300 capable of seating up to 234 passengers across three classes. It was delivered in 2002 and has been part of various fleets before joining United Airlines. As of July 31, 2024, it had accumulated over 69,000 flight hours.

This incident occurred shortly after another involving a United Airlines Boeing 757-300. Two days prior, a Phoenix-bound flight diverted to Albuquerque due to possible smoke in the cabin. "On December 28, United flight 2225 from Chicago to Phoenix declared an emergency and diverted to Albuquerque due to possible smoke in the cabin," said United in a statement.

The FAA's investigation into these incidents is ongoing.