A United Airlines flight from Key West to Newark was forced to make an emergency landing at Washington Dulles after smoke began venting from an onboard oven.
AT A GLANCE
- United Flight 1513 was diverted after smoke emerged from a galley oven.
- The flight landed safely at Dulles International Airport just before 5 PM.
- All 98 passengers and crew members evacuated safely and without injury.
- United Airlines provided an alternate aircraft to complete the journey to Newark.
- The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident.
Emergency Landing After Cabin Smoke Detected
A routine flight turned tense on Friday when United Airlines Flight 1513, en route from Key West, Florida to Newark, New Jersey, made an emergency landing at Washington Dulles International Airport due to reports of smoke in the cabin. According to the airline, the source of the smoke was a galley oven in the aircraft’s kitchen area.
“A United spokesperson said light smoke vented from a galley oven, prompting the emergency landing,” as reported by Fox 5 DC. The Boeing 737 aircraft departed Key West at approximately 2:25 PM and landed safely at Dulles just before 5 PM, where emergency crews awaited the arrival.
All 98 passengers, along with five crew members, were safely evacuated at the gate. No injuries were reported.
United Credits Crew for Quick, Safe Response
United Airlines emphasized the swift action of the flight crew in a public statement: “Our flight from Key West to Newark landed safely at Washington Dulles yesterday to investigate light smoke venting from a galley oven. All passengers deplaned normally at the gate. We arranged for a different aircraft to take our customers to Newark.”
Following the incident, United provided an alternate plane for the passengers, ensuring they reached their final destination in Newark by 9:30 PM. The Washington Times reported that airport staff at Dulles coordinated emergency and logistical support, minimizing disruption for travelers.
Watch coverage of the United Airlines emergency landing.
FAA Investigates; Airline Safety Measures in Focus
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it is investigating the incident. While light smoke incidents are rare, the episode has reignited discussions about in-flight fire hazards and emergency response preparedness.
So far, the airline has not indicated whether the galley oven involved was known to have prior maintenance issues. Incidents of in-flight smoke, particularly involving electrical systems or galley equipment, are taken seriously due to the potential risks of onboard fires in confined aircraft environments.
While this event concluded without injuries or further complications, it underscores the importance of well-drilled crew responses and strict equipment monitoring. Investigations like this help enhance aviation safety protocols, ensuring incidents are reviewed thoroughly and corrective actions implemented.
United Airlines’ handling of the situation—through prompt evacuation, clear communication, and timely passenger rebooking—reflects industry best practices when confronting mid-flight emergencies. As more details emerge from the FAA’s review, the airline industry will be watching closely to ensure all safety systems and equipment meet the highest standards.
