Overview
On December 31st, 2024, a United Airlines Boeing 767-300, registration N657UA, performing flight UA-16 from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey, USA, to London Heathrow (LHR), England, experienced a lightning strike while cruising at FL330, approximately 140 nautical miles northeast of Boston, Massachusetts. The flight crew decided to divert to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), where the aircraft landed safely on runway 22L around 10:50 p.m. local time.
The incident resulted in no injuries to passengers or crew, but the aircraft required a detailed inspection and repairs before being returned to service.
Incident Summary
Flight Details
• Aircraft Type: Boeing 767-300
• Registration: N657UA
• Flight Number: UA-16
• Operator: United Airlines
• Route: Newark (EWR) to London Heathrow (LHR)
• Passengers and Crew: Not specified
Sequence of Events
1. Departure: The aircraft departed Newark at 9:25 p.m. local time bound for London Heathrow.
2. Lightning Strike: While cruising at FL330, the aircraft was struck by lightning approximately 140nm northeast of Boston.
3. Crew Response:
• The flight crew assessed the situation and decided to divert to the nearest suitable airport for inspection.
• A precautionary descent and approach to Boston Logan International Airport were initiated.
4. Safe Landing: The aircraft landed on runway 22L at Boston Logan approximately 85 minutes after departure from Newark.
Technical Analysis
Lightning Strike Damage
• External Inspections:
• Visible scorch marks were observed near the radome and wingtips, consistent with a high-energy lightning discharge.
• Initial reports indicated no structural compromise but potential damage to avionics and minor skin deformation.
• Systems Check:
• The lightning strike likely affected the aircraft’s electrical and avionics systems. Post-landing inspections focused on grounding points, static wicks, and critical electronic systems.
Passenger Experience
• Passengers reported:
• A loud “bang” followed by a brief flicker of cabin lights.
• No cabin depressurization or turbulence was noted.
Immediate Actions
1. Aircraft Grounding:
• The aircraft was taken out of service for thorough inspections in accordance with Boeing’s post-lightning strike maintenance guidelines.
2. Passenger Care:
• Passengers were rebooked onto alternate flights to London, resulting in an extended delay.
Contributing Factors
1. Weather Conditions:
• Lightning activity was reported in the region at the time of the flight.
2. Operational Decision:
• The crew’s immediate decision to divert ensured passenger and crew safety.
Recommendations
1. Lightning Strike Inspections:
• Conduct a detailed inspection of the aircraft’s fuselage, radome, wingtips, and electrical systems.
• Verify the integrity of the bonding and grounding components critical for lightning dissipation.
2. Crew Training:
• Reinforce protocols for handling mid-flight lightning strikes, including rapid system checks and diversion decisions.
3. Passenger Communication:
• Ensure timely and clear communication with passengers regarding delays and safety measures during such events.
Conclusion
The flight crew’s prompt and professional response ensured the safety of all passengers and crew during the lightning strike event. Although the aircraft sustained minor damage, adherence to safety protocols and post-incident inspections minimised risks and ensured the integrity of the flight systems.
Disclaimer
This report is based on the facts available at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologise for any missed details or inaccuracies. If you are the rightful owner of any associated images and wish for their removal, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
