An official investigation has confirmed that a high-altitude weather balloon was responsible for shattering the cockpit window of a United Airlines flight, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing while carrying 112 people.
Mid-air collision at 36,000 feet
The incident occurred on October 18 when United Flight 1093 was cruising at approximately 36,000 feet near Moab, Utah. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has now verified that the mysterious object that struck the Boeing 737 MAX was indeed a long-duration weather balloon operated by WindBorne Systems.
The captain reported spotting a distant object on the horizon moments before impact, but didn't have time to alert his colleague before the windshield shattered with a loud bang. The collision showered both pilots with fragments of glass, with the captain sustaining multiple superficial lacerations to his right arm. The first officer emerged unharmed from the frightening incident.
Balloon's cross-country journey
Investigators traced the weather balloon's path, revealing it had embarked on a remarkable journey across the American West. The balloon departed from Spokane, Washington, the previous day, passing over Oregon and Nevada before entering Utah airspace where the collision occurred.
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy expressed grave concerns about the incident last month, stating it "could have been really devastating for the aircraft and those on board." The confirmation ends initial speculation that space debris might have caused the damage.
Immediate safety improvements implemented
WindBorne Systems, a California-based startup specialising in advanced weather forecasting, has taken responsibility and implemented significant safety changes. The company, which has conducted over 4,000 launches, immediately investigated when learning about the potential connection to their equipment.
Kai Marshland, co-founder of WindBorne, stated the company notified both NTSB and FAA within hours of becoming aware of the incident. The firm has since rolled out four additional safety measures and reduced time spent in commercial altitude bands by approximately 50% across its entire fleet.
The damaged United flight, which had departed from Denver, was safely diverted to Salt Lake City where passengers were transferred to another aircraft to complete their journey to Los Angeles later that day.
