Bullet Found on United Airlines Flight at Newark Airport

Security concerns raised after ammunition discovered in overhead bin prior to takeoff

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A single bullet was discovered in an overhead bin on a United Airlines Boeing 737 at Newark Liberty International Airport, leading to a significant security delay. The plane was declared a crime scene and searched by authorities before eventually departing for Miami nearly three hours late.

Why it matters

The discovery of ammunition in a passenger's carry-on luggage raises serious security concerns at Newark Airport, one of the busiest transportation hubs in the United States. Strict TSA rules prohibit firearms and ammunition in carry-on bags, and this incident highlights potential vulnerabilities in airport screening procedures.

The details

The bullet was found on United Flight 1511 bound for Miami on February 17. After the discovery, the plane was searched and cleared by authorities before departing nearly three hours late. It is still unknown how the bullet entered the aircraft cabin after multiple screening procedures at Newark. TSA rules strictly prohibit firearms in carry-on baggage, and ammunition must be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided container, and declared to the airline at check-in as checked baggage.

  • The incident occurred on February 17 on a United Airlines flight bound for Miami.
  • The plane was delayed for nearly 3 hours before eventually departing at 4:49 pm local time.
  • The flight landed in Miami at 7:33 pm.

The players

United Airlines

The airline operating the flight on which the bullet was discovered.

Newark Liberty International Airport

The airport where the incident took place, one of the busiest transportation hubs in the United States.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for airport security screening procedures, which strictly prohibit firearms and ammunition in carry-on luggage.

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What they’re saying

“On Tuesday, United Flight 1511 underwent a security sweep after a bullet was discovered in an overhead bin prior to the flight's departure.”

— United Airlines (Fox News Digital)

What’s next

Authorities are still investigating how the bullet entered the aircraft cabin after the multiple security screenings at Newark Airport.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by airports and airlines, and the need for continued vigilance and improvement of screening procedures to ensure passenger safety.