United Flight Loses Landing Gear Wheel After Hard Orlando Landing

A United Airlines flight experienced a mechanical issue following a hard landing at Orlando International Airport, prompting an inspection that identified damage to the aircraft’s landing gear. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew, but the incident has drawn attention as airlines and regulators remain focused on aircraft maintenance and operational safety.

The incident occurred on January 18 as a narrowbody aircraft operated by United Airlines was arriving in Orlando from Chicago. Video shared on social media appears to show the Airbus A321 touching down firmly and briefly bouncing on the runway, after which a component of the landing gear can be seen rolling into the grass alongside the runway. While the footage has fueled speculation, United has not confirmed that a wheel detached during the landing.

In a statement, United said: “United flight 2323 from Chicago to Orlando experienced a mechanical issue upon landing. Passengers were bused to the terminal and the aircraft was cleared from the runway. No injuries were reported.” The airline did not provide further technical details regarding the extent or cause of the damage.

Following the landing at Orlando International Airport, airport operations personnel and United maintenance crews inspected the aircraft and determined it would need to be removed from service. Passengers disembarked normally and were transported to the terminal, while the aircraft was towed away for further evaluation and maintenance checks.

Hard landings can result from a range of factors, including wind conditions, approach speed, runway surface conditions or pilot technique during touchdown. Aircraft landing gear systems are designed to absorb substantial forces, but excessive stress can lead to damage to tires, wheels or structural components, requiring detailed inspection before an aircraft can return to service.

United said the aircraft will undergo a comprehensive maintenance review in accordance with standard safety procedures. Such inspections typically involve close examination of landing gear assemblies, wheels, brakes and surrounding structural areas. Airlines are required to document abnormal landings and report findings to regulators when appropriate.

The Federal Aviation Administration may review the event to determine whether further investigation is warranted. While landing gear incidents are relatively rare, they are treated seriously due to the critical role these systems play in safe flight operations. The FAA has not indicated whether a formal investigation has been opened.

For passengers, the incident highlights the significant mechanical stresses aircraft endure during routine operations. Although the event caused delays and inconvenience, aviation experts note that the aircraft performed as designed by landing safely and allowing all passengers to exit without injury.

United emphasized that safety remains its top priority and that incidents of this nature, while uncommon, are addressed through established inspection and maintenance protocols.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com