When a strange object struck the windshield of a United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 traveling from Denver to Los Angeles (Flight UA1093) at 36,000 feet, the aircraft safely diverted to Salt Lake City. The pilot sustained scratches and bruises typical of glass damage, but the passengers were uninjured.
Investigators found scorch marks close to the area of contact, and the multilayer windshield was broken in the hit. At this height, crashes with space debris are extremely unusual, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. While authorities determine if flight data, radar, and debris fragments indicate an orbital object or an internal failure, United Airlines grounded the aircraft for inspection.
All 140 passengers on board were given alternate transportation by the airline, which also stated that maintenance experts are trying to get the aircraft back into operation.