The cause of the malfunction is yet to be determined, and the FAA stated that it would investigate the incident.
One of the passengers claimed she heard a sound that resembled a “gunshot.” Upon opening her window shade, she saw the engine missing its covering and parts of it flying into the ocean. Another passenger said the plane shook violently and later calmed down to a vibration that continued for the remainder of the flight.
United issued a statement that the plane made an emergency landing after the engine cowling came off. It stated that the pilots followed all necessary safety protocols to land the aircraft and passengers deplaned normally.
Passengers shared their experiences on social media platforms with one calling it the “scariest flight of my life.”
Quite an eventful Valentine’s week it has been!