Overview
- A United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 en route from Newark to Guatemala City diverted to Washington Dulles after the pilot reported a passenger tried to open door 2L and assaulted another traveler.
- The plane landed safely and was met by law enforcement at Dulles, with the FBI saying it responded and United canceling the remainder of the flight while providing a replacement flight and hotel rooms.
- The pilot told Potomac Approach there were no known injuries on board, and the aircraft carried about 145 passengers and six crew members on the flight.
- Air traffic control audio of the pilot’s report has circulated in media, and aviation experts note that a pressurized cabin at typical cruise altitude makes a full door opening physically implausible.
- Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview crew and passengers to resolve what happened and to determine any possible charges or safety follow‑ups stemming from the incident.