United Airlines A321neo Wheel Loss in Orlando Sparks FAA Investigation
A United Airlines Airbus A321neo encountered a significant incident during landing at Orlando International Airport (MCO) on January 18, 2026. The aircraft, operating flight UA2323 from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and registered as N14502, experienced a hard touchdown that led to the detachment of one wheel.
Incident Overview
The incident unfolded shortly after the aircraft landed, during the rollout phase when it was decelerating. Despite the loss of a wheel from the landing gear assembly, the aircraft remained upright and controlled. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
Response and Management
Emergency vehicles were dispatched promptly as the aircraft came to a halt on the active taxiway. This event caused a temporary ground stop at MCO during a peak operational period. Photographic evidence from the scene indicates debris on the runway, although there were no signs of fire or need for evacuation.
Investigative Actions
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will investigate this unusual occurrence. Previous scrutiny of United Airlines highlighted routine maintenance concerns in 2024, but there’s currently no indication that these issues are connected to the recent incident.
Understanding Landing Gear Failures
While hard landings occasionally happen in aviation—often due to factors such as unstable approaches or adverse weather conditions—the separation of a wheel is rare and poses significant risks. Modern aircraft are designed with redundancies, making this incident particularly concerning, as it suggests potential mechanical failure or extreme stress during landing.
Aircraft Type Performance
- Aircraft Model: Airbus A321neo
- Operated by: United Airlines
- Flight Route: Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Incident Date: January 18, 2026
- Registration Code: N14502
The Airbus A321neo is generally regarded as a reliable aircraft across various carriers. As investigations progress, there is currently no indication that this incident relates to a larger issue affecting the airline’s fleet.
Conclusion
This incident is a stark reminder of the complexities of aviation safety. While the outcome was fortunate, the circumstances surrounding the wheel loss during landing demand a thorough investigation. The aviation community will be watching closely as United Airlines and the FAA work to determine the cause and implications of this unsettling event.
