United Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Japan, two people injured

A United Airlines Boeing 737-800 en route from Tokyo’s Narita Airport to Cebu, Philippines, was forced to make an emergency landing at Kansai International Airport in Osaka on September 12, 2025, following concerns of a potential fire in the cargo hold. The aircraft, carrying 135 passengers and seven crew members, was evacuated using emergency slides. Two individuals sustained minor injuries and were transported to a hospital for treatment. United Airlines confirmed that an initial maintenance inspection revealed no evidence of a fire. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, prompting the diversion to Osaka. Authorities, including Kansai Airport officials, local police, and fire departments, were unavailable for comment outside regular business hours. The airline has not yet disclosed further details regarding the cause of the emergency or the nature of the injuries. The event underscores the importance of swift emergency response protocols in aviation safety.