Bullet Found in Overhead Bin Prompts Security Sweep on United Flight

The plane was cleared and delayed for nearly 3 hours before taking off for Miami

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A bullet was discovered in the overhead bin of a United Airlines flight departing from Newark, New Jersey to Miami, Florida on Tuesday, February 17. The plane underwent a full security sweep by authorities before being cleared to depart, resulting in a nearly 3-hour delay.

Why it matters

The discovery of a bullet on a commercial flight raises concerns about airport security and passenger safety. It also highlights the strict rules around transporting firearms and ammunition on planes, which are only allowed in checked baggage under specific conditions.

The details

After the bullet was found in the overhead bin, security personnel cleared the United flight 1511 plane and confiscated the bullet for investigation. The Port Authority Police Department notified the FBI about the incident. The flight, which was originally scheduled to depart at 2:07 pm local time, was delayed until 4:49 pm before taking off for Miami.

  • The bullet was discovered on United flight 1511 departing from Newark Liberty International Airport on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The plane was originally scheduled to depart at 2:07 pm local time.
  • After the security sweep, the flight departed at 4:49 pm and landed in Miami at 7:33 pm.

The players

United Airlines

The airline operating the flight from Newark to Miami where the bullet was found.

Port Authority Police Department

The law enforcement agency that confiscated the bullet and notified the FBI about the incident.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency that oversees airport security and has strict rules about transporting firearms and ammunition on planes.

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What they’re saying

“Security personnel cleared the aircraft, which later departed for Miami.”

— United Airlines spokesperson (PEOPLE)

What’s next

The Port Authority Police Department and the FBI will continue investigating the incident to determine how the bullet ended up in the overhead bin.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of strict security measures at airports to ensure passenger safety. It also serves as a reminder for travelers to properly follow TSA rules when transporting any firearms or ammunition, which are only allowed in checked baggage under specific conditions.