A transatlantic flight carrying Fox News commentator Pete Hegseth to the United Kingdom was forced into an unexpected emergency landing after the aircraft experienced a dramatic cabin pressure failure mid-flight.
The United Airlines Boeing 757, operating as Flight UA960 from Washington Dulles to London Heathrow, was approximately two hours into its journey when the cabin suddenly failed to pressurise properly. According to passenger accounts, oxygen masks deployed automatically as the plane began a rapid descent.
Emergency Diversion to Maine
Pilots made the decisive choice to divert the aircraft to Bangor International Airport in Maine, where emergency services were placed on high alert. The plane landed safely without further incident around 9:30 PM local time.
Hegseth, a former army officer and prominent conservative voice, was travelling to Britain for undisclosed professional engagements. He took to social media platform X to reassure followers about the situation, confirming that all passengers had emerged physically unharmed from the frightening ordeal.
Passenger Reactions and Aftermath
"Everyone is safe," Hegseth stated in his online update, though he acknowledged the psychological impact of the incident. Other travellers described moments of panic as the cabin altitude changed rapidly and oxygen masks descended from overhead compartments.
United Airlines has confirmed they are conducting a full investigation into the pressurisation system failure. The airline arranged hotel accommodation for stranded passengers and worked to rebook them on alternative flights to London throughout Wednesday.
This incident highlights the critical safety protocols that govern modern air travel, demonstrating how crew training and emergency procedures can prevent potential tragedies during technical malfunctions over the Atlantic.
