United flight returns to Newark after Bluetooth device triggers security concern

A United Airlines flight bound for Spain was forced to return to Newark after a passenger's Bluetooth device sparked a midair security scare.

(NBC)- A United Airlines flight bound for Spain was forced to return to Newark after a passenger’s Bluetooth device sparked a midair security scare.

Passengers on Flight 236 were informed the aircraft would be turning around and heading back to New Jersey. According to a source who spoke with NBC News, the issue involved a passenger’s Bluetooth device that was reportedly named “bomb.” Audio from air traffic control indicated officials were responding to concerns about a Bluetooth speaker with a suspicious name.

Passengers described uncertainty as crews worked to determine whether the threat was real or a prank.

“It was kind of back and forth between, like, is somebody playing a sick, selfish prank, or are we actually concerned?” passenger Jordan Moore said.

After landing back in Newark, passengers were required to deplane and undergo additional security screening. Moore said the incident delayed departure by nearly 12 hours. The scare came just hours after another emergency diversion involving a different United flight traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis.

Authorities said a 75-year-old passenger repeatedly attempted to breach the cockpit during that flight. According to the sheriff’s office, the man was subdued by FBI agents who happened to be onboard. Officials later said he appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis.

The two incidents have raised concerns among some travelers about airline safety and security.

“We want to make sure we’re safe and like guaranteed that comfort before we take off,” Moore said.

Authorities have not announced whether any charges will be filed in connection with the Newark incident.