A United Airlines flight bound for Shanghai from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) was forced to turn back just two hours into its journey on March 24, 2025, when the pilot discovered they had forgotten their passport.

The aircraft, carrying 257 passengers, diverted to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), where a new crew was arranged to resume the trip later that evening.

United Airlines confirmed the incident, stating that the pilot lacked the necessary documentation for international travel. Passengers were provided with $15 meal vouchers and additional compensation for the inconvenience, though some expressed frustration over the delay on social media platforms.

The flight’s unexpected detour highlights a rare lapse in pre-flight protocols, raising questions about checklist adherence in an industry known for its rigorous standards.

The disruption comes amid a busy travel period, with United emphasizing that the issue was swiftly addressed to minimize impact. While the airline has not detailed how the oversight occurred, the incident has sparked online chatter, with some users on X marveling at the human error and others questioning security measures.

For passengers, the ordeal ended with a safe, albeit delayed, arrival in Shanghai. As investigations into the incident continue, it serves as a reminder of the complexities behind even the most routine international flights.