United Airlines Flight Diverted to Pittsburgh Over Security Concern

A United Airlines flight from Chicago O'Hare to New York LaGuardia was diverted to Pittsburgh International Airport on Saturday morning after crew members reported a "possible security issue." The incident prompted a significant law enforcement response and the evacuation of passengers via emergency slides.

The scene was cleared by law enforcement, and the airport remained open and operational throughout the event.

Response and Investigation

Upon landing in Pittsburgh, passengers exited the aircraft using the emergency slides. The FBI's Pittsburgh office, along with the Allegheny County Police Bomb Squad and explosive detection canines, responded to the scene.

Law enforcement conducted a thorough sweep of the aircraft, passengers, and luggage, with all results coming back negative. No explosives or related threats were found.

Official Statements

• A Federal Aviation Administration spokesperson confirmed the diversion and the reason for it.
• United Airlines confirmed the use of emergency slides for the evacuation.
• The Allegheny County Police Department stated its Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and canines had completed their investigation with negative findings.
• Bob Kerlik, director of public affairs for the Allegheny County Airport Authority, confirmed law enforcement had cleared the scene and that airport operations continued normally.

Aftermath and Passenger Rebooking

Following the security sweep, passengers from the diverted flight were rebooked onto another aircraft to continue their journey. Officials have not provided specific details regarding the nature of the reported threat that initiated the diversion, nor have they confirmed if any individuals were taken into custody.

Video footage from a local ABC News affiliate showed the aircraft on the tarmac with its emergency slides deployed.