Full Breakdown
Live Bullet Discovered on United Flight Before Denver Departure
8/14/2026, 9:19:28 AM
Incident Overview
During routine pre-departure checks on a United Airlines Boeing 737-900 bound for San Diego, a live bullet was found aboard the aircraft at Denver International Airport. Security personnel ordered all 178 passengers and six crew members to deplane with their carry-on bags while the plane was emptied for a thorough sweep. The airline described the find as a “security breach” and apologized to travelers. The origin of the bullet and how it entered the cabin were not immediately known.
Flight Details and Response
The flight, designated United 1302, had been scheduled to leave Denver in the early afternoon but did not depart until more than two hours later after the security sweep was completed. United coordinated with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airport officials to clear the aircraft before it resumed its route to San Diego. Passengers were kept at the gate while the investigation proceeded, and the airline directed further questions to the TSA.
Official Statements
United issued a brief statement confirming the incident and noting that security personnel cleared the aircraft before it continued to San Diego. The airline said the investigation into the bullet’s source was ongoing and that it had referred additional inquiries to the TSA. No information was provided about any passenger misconduct or the involvement of a fake boarding pass, which had been reported in early coverage.
Data & Statistics
- Aircraft: Boeing 737-900
- Passengers: 178
- Crew members: 6
- Delay: approximately two hours beyond the scheduled departure time
- Security action: complete deplaning and aircraft sweep
Verbatim Quotes
- “Security personnel cleared the aircraft, which later departed for San Diego.” — United
