Airbus A319 diverted to GJT

[n0nhp]

United flight 306 from LAX to BWI was diverted to Grand Junction Regional Airport just before noon today with smoke in the cockpit.
The plane landed without problem however the pilot was heard saying the aircraft was downchecked.
[political satire on]
Some politics may be delayed as passengers are re-routed to the nation's capital through our regional carriers!
[/satire off]
Law enforcement and fire/rescue crews are remaining staged at the airport for the time being.

Bruce

 

[n0nhp]

United Airlines Plane Makes Emergency Landing In Grand Junction
Initial Report Of Bomb On Plane
POSTED: 12:02 pm MST February 15, 2011

UPDATED: 12:28 pm MST February 15, 2011
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -- A United Airlines plane made an emergency landing at the Grand Junction Regional Airport around 11:00 a.m. today after reports of smoke coming from the cargo hold.

The flight carrying 109 people was enroute from Los Angeles to Denver when the crew noticed a smoke sensor in the cargo hold go off. Airport officials say the initial report expressed concerns of a possible bomb in the cargo area. This report turned out to be a miscommunication between the flight crew and air traffic control.

After further inspection, the flight crew clarified that there was no suspected bomb and that the cargo area smoke indicator light was the only issue.

Grand Junction Regional Airport firefighters inspected the cargo area upon landing, and reported no smoke. The Grand Junction Police Department and Fire Department responded to provide assistance.

All passengers and flight crew deplaned the aircraft with no problems reported at this time.

United Airlines Plane Makes Emergency Landing In Grand Junction - Local News Story - KJCT Grand Junction

Bruce