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Pilot's Panicked Words Revealed in Houston Runway Skid
2 Jan
Summary
- United Boeing 737 skidded off a wet runway in Houston on March 8, 2024.
- Cockpit audio reveals pilot's apologies and distress after the incident.
- Crew eased off braking systems, causing the aircraft to fail deceleration.
On March 8, 2024, a United Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX veered off a wet runway while landing at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The incident, captured on surveillance footage, showed the aircraft unable to stop in time and skidding into the grass. Approximately 160 passengers were on board the flight from Memphis, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Newly released details from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) include a transcript of cockpit audio. The captain, Alireza Johartchi, expressed significant distress, repeatedly apologizing and stating, "I thought it was gonna stop." Investigators determined the crew inadvertently reduced braking effectiveness by disengaging speed brakes and reducing reverse thrust on the slick surface.
The NTSB's preliminary report indicated the plane's left landing gear detached after contacting a recessed concrete structure off the runway. The pilot also expressed concern about social media attention and cautioned against discussing the event. The investigation into the exact cause remains ongoing.
