Mystery Object Hits US Plane Cockpit at 36,000 Feet
A United Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8, operating as Flight 1093 from Denver to Los Angeles, was forced to make an emergency landing in Salt Lake City after its cockpit windshield was struck by a mystery object at about 36,000 feet. The incident occurred on Thursday with 134 passengers and six crew aboard.
Pilot Injured, Aircraft Diverted
One of the pilots sustained minor injuries to his arm from shattered glass. The aircraft safely diverted and landed without further incident. Passengers were re-booked on another plane and eventually reached Los Angeles after a delay.
Unknown Cause Under Investigation
The nature of the object remains undetermined. Officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have opened an investigation. Initial reports noted burn marks around the crack, prompting speculation about space debris, though experts stressed such an impact is highly unlikely.
Implications for Aviation Safety
The incident raises concerns about in-flight hazards at cruising altitude, where risks are normally limited to bird strikes or hail events at lower levels. Authorities may review windshield durability standards and monitoring of orbital debris.
