A United Airlines flight en route from Newark to Rome on September 13, 2023, had to make an emergency descent of 28,000 feet in just eight minutes due to a pressurization issue. The Boeing 777, carrying around 270 passengers, was flying over the Pacific Ocean when the issue arose. Cabin crew noticed a significant drop in cabin pressure, prompting the pilot to initiate a steep descent from 37,000 feet to 9,000 feet to stabilize the situation.
Pressurization problems in an aircraft can lead to a sudden loss of oxygen, making it difficult to breathe. During the incident, three passengers reportedly lost consciousness due to the rapid change in cabin pressure. Oxygen masks were deployed to assist passengers and crew while the aircraft descended to a safer altitude where breathing without assistance was possible.
After stabilizing the situation, the pilot diverted the flight to Shannon Airport in Ireland, where it landed safely without further issues. Emergency medical personnel met the plane to assess the passengers’ condition, and those who had lost consciousness received immediate medical attention. Thankfully, no life-threatening injuries were reported.
United Airlines confirmed that the incident was related to a pressurization issue but did not specify the exact cause. The aircraft was grounded for inspection, and passengers were rebooked on other flights. This event highlights the critical importance of swift action during in-flight emergencies and how modern aviation safety protocols, such as oxygen mask deployment and rapid descent procedures, can prevent potential disasters.