United Airlines Flight Diverted After Possible Weather Balloon Strike

Salt Lake City, UT – A United Airlines flight was forced to divert to Salt Lake City International Airport today after the aircraft’s windshield was cracked at 36,000 feet, and a Silicon Valley startup has indicated its weather balloon may be responsible.

Flight UA688, traveling from Los Angeles to Denver, landed safely at approximately 1:30 PM Mountain Time on October 21, 2025. Passengers reported a loud bang and a spiderweb-like crack appearing on the cockpit windshield. One passenger described the moments as “terrifying,” according to reports. Initial investigations suggest an object impacted the plane, and officials are now focusing on a high-altitude weather balloon launched by Stratodynamics, Inc.

Stratodynamics, Inc. released a statement acknowledging the possibility their balloon was involved, stating they were conducting research flights in the area yesterday. “We are cooperating fully with the FAA and United Airlines to determine if one of our balloons came into contact with the aircraft,” the company said. This incident highlights the increasing complexities of airspace management as commercial and research operations expand at higher altitudes. For more information on aviation safety, visit the Federal Aviation Administration website.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been notified and will conduct a full investigation into the incident. United Airlines is working to re-accommodate passengers on alternative flights. The FAA is also reviewing flight paths and procedures to prevent similar occurrences, and you can find more details about air travel safety here.

Officials stated the aircraft is undergoing thorough maintenance checks before being returned to service.