A United flight bound for Phoenix diverted to a U.S. Air Force base on Monday as strong thunderstorms engulfed the Phoenix metro area.
KNXV-TV reported that the flight, which originated in Houston, had to land at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale when a ground stop came into effect for Phoenix Sky Harbor. In a statement, the airline said diverting to the base was the “safest course of action.”
The passengers and crew were taken by bus from Luke Air Force Base to Phoenix. No injuries were reported.
“We’re grateful for the support from the Air Force and our teams at Phoenix Sky Harbor for finding a solution for our customers on this flight,” United said.
FlightAware shows United Flight 2078 landed at Luke Air Force Base after about three hours in the air. The aircraft involved is a Boeing 737-900.
According to local media outlets, storms brought heavy rain, wind gusts, and small hail to the Phoenix area Monday evening. Thousands of people lost power, and flash flooding was reported in some neighborhoods.
