United Airlines Flight 998 Diverts to Dublin Due to Medical Issue and Disruptive Passenger

On June 3, 2024, United Airlines Flight 998 from Brussels to Newark was diverted to Dublin Airport following two separate incidents on board.

The flight, identified as UAL998, encountered a medical issue involving a passenger suspected of having an infectious disease. Additionally, there was a disruptive passenger on board, prompting the crew to request an emergency diversion.

This incident highlights the importance of airlines' emergency protocols and the need for swift action in response to medical emergencies and disruptive passengers. The consequences of not addressing such incidents in a timely manner can be severe, including the risk of disease transmission and compromised safety on board.

Upon landing at Dublin Airport, the Health Service Executive (HSE) infectious disease unit boarded the aircraft to assess the medical situation. The Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) confirmed the diversion, stating, "Flight UA998 from Brussels to New York's Newark Airport diverted to Dublin Airport this afternoon following reports of two separate incidents - a disruptive passenger and a suspected medical issue - on board."

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-10 with registration N13018, departed from Brussels at 11:17 CEST. Just an hour into the flight, the crew decided to divert to the closest major airport. Air traffic control facilitated the diversion, and the plane landed on the Southern runway at Dublin Airport, taxiing to a remote area.

Passengers were required to remain on board until further tests and procedures were completed by the HSE infectious disease unit. Emergency services, including the Gardaí and National Ambulance Service, were on standby to assist.

United Airlines issued an apology for the inconvenience caused, emphasizing the importance of passenger safety and well-being. The airline stated, "We diverted to Dublin so our team can address an urgent customer situation on your plane. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and we appreciate your patience."

The DAA assured that there was no impact on operations at Dublin Airport, and passengers traveling that evening were advised to arrive as scheduled. The situation remains under assessment, and further updates are expected.

The diversion of United Airlines Flight 998 highlights the critical protocols in place to handle medical emergencies and passenger disruptions, ensuring the safety and security of all on board.

Key Takeaways

• United Airlines Flight 998 diverted to Dublin due to medical issue and disruptive passenger.
• Flight departed Brussels at 11:17 CEST and landed in Dublin an hour later.
• HSE infectious disease unit boarded the plane to assess the medical situation.
• Passengers remained on board until tests and procedures were completed.
• United Airlines apologized for the inconvenience and emphasized passenger safety.