Flight Back to Newark Due to Safety Concerns

A United Airlines flight to Spain had to turn back to Newark Liberty International Airport on Saturday night after it was diverted over the Atlantic due to potential safety issues.

The flight, United Flight 236, was on its way to Palma de Mallorca when it reversed course about 90 minutes after takeoff and returned to New Jersey later that night.

According to a United Airlines spokesperson, the Boeing 767 was carrying 190 passengers and 12 crew members. “United Flight 236 safely returned to Newark to address potential safety concerns,” the airline stated. “The flight continued to Palma de Mallorca with a new crew.”

Reports indicate that the incident began when a flight attendant asked a passenger to disable their Bluetooth connection. Passengers mentioned that crew members repeatedly emphasized this request originated from United Airlines’ operations center and insisted that the flight couldn’t proceed unless the situation was resolved.

One passenger reported that there were several announcements warning about safety concerns related to Bluetooth devices, and eventually, a final warning was given before the plane changed course.

As the crew worked to pinpoint the device causing the issue, the warnings became more urgent. Passengers claimed that flight attendants suggested the issue was escalating, and it was likely they would have to return if it wasn’t resolved. Documentation reviewed by AirLive.net showed the controversy stemmed from a Bluetooth-enabled device displaying a name that included the word “bomb,” prompting a quick reaction from security personnel.

Ultimately, the flight crew chose to abort the journey rather than continue across the Atlantic with this unresolved concern.

After landing, law enforcement and security personnel met the plane. Passengers were taken off the aircraft and a thorough security check was performed. They were allowed to leave with only a limited number of personal items and then re-screened before boarding alternative flights. The aircraft along with checked bags underwent additional security procedures.

United Airlines has not revealed the identities of the passengers who connected the Bluetooth devices, nor have they commented on possible charges or fines. FOX Business has requested more information from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey regarding this incident.