A United Airlines flight traveling from Tel Aviv to Newark declared an in-flight emergency Sunday after passengers and crew detected a burning smell and smoke odor inside the aircraft, prompting an unscheduled diversion to Athens, Greece.
United Airlines Flight UA168 was en route to Newark Liberty International Airport when the crew reported the apparent electrical issue and made the decision to divert to Athens as a precaution.
The aircraft began descending and reportedly dumped fuel ahead of its emergency landing to reduce its weight.
Emergency crews were placed on alert at Athens International Airport, with fire trucks positioned along the runway as the aircraft approached.
Initial reports indicated that smoke or a burning smell had been detected inside the cabin, raising concerns about a possible electrical malfunction. However, subsequent information clarified that there was no actual fire aboard the aircraft, only an odor resembling smoke.
The precise source of the burning smell has not yet been confirmed.
The incident prompted a general emergency declaration, allowing the flight to receive priority handling from air traffic controllers and ensuring that emergency personnel were prepared for its arrival.
There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Further details regarding the aircraft’s condition, the passengers and the continuation of the flight to Newark were not immediately available.
(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)
