Sequence & Resolution
Event Date04/30/2026
Level
Incident
CategoryPitot Heater Problem
Flight PhaseClimb
Affected AltitudeFL270
Technical Issue DetailsA Boeing 757-200 operated by United Airlines, registered as N14120, was operating flight UA270 from Newark Liberty to Shannon with 176 occupants. During the climb-out phase, the flight crew halted their ascent at 27,000 feet (FL270). Shortly after, an emergency was declared when the crew reported a malfunction with their probe heating system.
Outcome / HandlingThe aircraft turned back to Newark, performing a safe landing on runway 04R approximately 50 minutes post-departure. Although the crew indicated that medical or fire assistance was unnecessary, emergency response vehicles escorted the jet back to the gate. A substitute Boeing 757-200 (registration N17128) completed the journey to Shannon with a delay of around 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Flight Information
Flight NumberUA270
Landing Runway04R
Replacement AircraftN17128
Delay Duration4 hours 20 minutes