United, FAA Probe Unauthorized Cockpit Access Mid-Flight

Key Takeaway

• United Airlines and the FAA are investigating an incident where Colorado Rockies' hitting coach accessed a Boeing 757 cockpit mid-flight, violating security protocols.
• The pilots involved have been temporarily removed from service as the incident highlights critical safety and operational policy breaches.
• This scrutiny comes amid increased FAA oversight of United due to recent safety incidents, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to safety guidelines.

Unauthorized Cockpit Access Incident

United Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are currently investigating an incident involving unauthorized access to the cockpit of a charter flight. The flight, operated by United on April 10, 2024, was chartered for the Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball team, traveling from Denver to Toronto. A video that surfaced on social media, but was later removed, depicted a man sitting at the controls of a Boeing 757, seemingly at cruising altitude. The man, identified as Hensley Meulens, a hitting coach for the team, was shown mimicking flight operations and giving a thumbs-up. The video, which was also posted to YouTube, raised concerns due to the apparent violation of strict access protocols to the flight deck, established post-September 11, 2001.

United Airlines expressed deep disturbance over the video, stating, "We’re deeply disturbed by what we see in that video, which appears to show an unauthorized person in the flight deck at cruise altitude while the autopilot was engaged." The airline has reported the incident to the FAA and has temporarily withheld the pilots from service pending an investigation.

Safety and Operational Policies

The incident has brought to light the critical importance of adhering to safety and operational policies designed to protect passengers and crew. Federal regulations and United’s flight operations manual dictate that the cockpit door remain closed during flight to prevent unauthorized access. This protocol is in place for all flights, including charters, to ensure the safety and security of everyone on board. The occurrence of such an incident, especially on a charter flight for a professional sports team, underscores the need for constant vigilance and strict adherence to established safety guidelines.

Recent Scrutiny and Oversight

This event comes at a time when United Airlines has been under increased scrutiny due to a series of safety incidents. The FAA has intensified its oversight of the airline, imposing restraints on its growth. United has acknowledged the need for heightened conscientiousness among its pilots, urging them to avoid complacency and strictly follow the airline’s procedures. The incident has sparked a broader discussion on the safety culture within the airline, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and rule adherence.