Aircraft and Flight Details
• Operator: United Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 777-200
• Registration: N768UA
• Flight Number: UA-1873
• Route: San Diego (KSAN), California, to Washington Dulles (KIAD), DC, USA
• Date: 16 January 2025
Incident Summary
During the initial climb out of San Diego’s runway 27, the flight crew of United Airlines flight UA-1873 identified an issue with the right-hand main landing gear, which failed to retract. The crew levelled off at FL230 to troubleshoot the problem and confirmed the gear was down but unable to uplock. Air Traffic Control (ATC) was informed, and the crew liaised with maintenance to identify potential solutions.
After approximately 30 minutes of troubleshooting, the decision was made to continue climbing to FL310 and divert the flight to Denver International Airport (KDEN). The aircraft landed without incident on Denver’s runway, approximately 90 minutes after the diversion was initiated.
Crew and Passenger Communication
The captain informed passengers about the landing gear issue, explaining that the right-hand main gear did not uplock. However, the captain assured passengers that the landing could be conducted normally. The landing at Denver was uneventful, with no reported injuries or complications during the operation.
Flight Continuation
A replacement Boeing 777-200, registration N211UA, was dispatched to complete the journey. The passengers were accommodated on the replacement aircraft, which departed from Denver and reached Washington Dulles with a delay of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Technical Details
• Issue Identified: Right-hand main landing gear failure to uplock.
• Altitude During Troubleshooting: FL230.
• Diversion Destination: Denver International Airport (KDEN).
• Landing at Denver: Conducted safely and uneventfully, with no assistance required.
• Inspection Outcome: No further details have been provided regarding the cause of the landing gear malfunction.
Status of the Aircraft
The occurrence aircraft, N768UA, remained on the ground in Denver following the incident for further inspection and maintenance.
Conclusion
The crew’s prompt decision to divert and their adherence to standard operating procedures ensured the safety of all passengers and crew. United Airlines coordinated effectively to minimise disruptions to passengers and complete the flight to its intended destination. The incident highlights the importance of clear communication, thorough troubleshooting, and procedural adherence in handling technical malfunctions during flight.
This incident is under review by United Airlines and regulatory authorities to determine the root cause of the landing gear issue. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
