United Airlines Jet Overshoots Runway at Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport

Virginia State Police confirmed that 53 passengers and crew were on board a United Airlines Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet that overshot the runway at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport on Wednesday Sep. 24 at night. According to troopers, the aircraft was landing just before 10:00 p.m. when it failed to stop within the available pavement and came to rest beyond the end of Runway 16-34. Emergency stopping equipment, part of the airport’s engineered materials arresting system (EMAS), safely halted the plane.

No injuries were reported among passengers or crew. The Federal Aviation Administration has opened an investigation into the incident to determine what factors led to the runway excursion.

Airport officials said United Flight 4339 had departed from Washington Dulles International Airport earlier that evening. After the incident, passengers were transported to the terminal by Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport staff and local first responders.

Runway closures continued into Thursday morning as crews inspected the affected area and ensured it was safe for operations. The airport urged travelers to check with their airlines for updates on flight delays or cancellations.

This event highlights the effectiveness of EMAS technology, which is designed to slow or stop aircraft that overrun a runway, preventing damage and injuries. Although the plane left the pavement, the safety system worked as intended, minimizing disruption and safeguarding everyone on board.


Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=united+airlines, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, wvtf.org