Smoke Sparks Emergency on United Flight from Heathrow
A United Airlines flight bound for New York was forced to turn back to London Heathrow today after smoke reportedly filled the cabin mid-flight. Flight UA147, a Boeing 767-300 carrying 70 passengers and 11 crew, took off around 3.45pm heading to Newark Liberty International Airport.
Flight Loops Over Kent Before Emergency Return
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft looped over Kent at about 13,000 feet before making a U-turn and heading back to Heathrow. Aviation tracking site Flightradar24 flagged the plane in red after its emergency transponder code 7700 was activated, signaling a general emergency.
Passengers Alarmed as Smoke Clouds Cabin
United Airlines described the problem as a “potential mechanical issue,” but sources say visible smoke inside the cabin caused panic and forced crew into emergency action. The jet came in for a safe landing at Heathrow with emergency services on standby.
Safe Landing & Full Evacuation
All passengers disembarked safely with no injuries reported. A United Airlines spokesperson said:
“United flight 147 returned to London Heathrow Airport to address a potential mechanical issue. The flight landed safely and was subsequently cancelled. We are working to rebook customers on the next available flight to Newark.”
Thousands Track Dramatic Flight Path Online
More than 10,000 people followed the unusual flight path as it circled over Ashford and southern Kent before heading back west. The aircraft, registered N665UA, was built in July 1998.
Heathrow Airport confirmed the emergency landing and safe evacuation. Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority has declined to comment as investigations continue.
