Snowstorm Forces United Airlines Flight UA120 To Abort Return And Divert To Washington Dulles After Departing Newark, Stranding Passengers On Unplanned Journey

Published on December 28, 2025

United Airlines Flight UA120 diverted to Washington Dulles after a mechanical issue and snowstorm conditions at Newark made it impossible to return safely. Less than an hour after takeoff, the flight—which was headed to Barcelona—had a technical issue. The airline decided to land at Washington Dulles instead because of the poor visibility and snow at Newark. This diversion ensured passenger safety and allowed for the necessary maintenance checks on the aircraft.

United Airlines Flight UA120, scheduled to depart from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) for Barcelona, Spain, encountered significant delays and an unexpected diversion on Friday, December 26, 2025, due to a combination of mechanical issues and inclement weather. Originally slated for a 7-hour flight, the Boeing 767-400ER departed Newark’s Terminal C, gate C120, one hour behind schedule at 20:20 EST, kicking off what would become an eventful journey.

After leaving runway 4L and climbing to an altitude of 29,000 feet over Connecticut, the flight quickly entered the Atlantic Ocean. However, less than an hour into the journey, a mechanical issue prompted the crew to consider returning to Newark Airport. Unfortunately, the return plan was thwarted by the worsening weather conditions in the New York area, including snow and low visibility, which hindered the airport’s ability to accommodate the flight.

With Newark facing significant snowstorm conditions, United Airlines opted to divert Flight UA120 to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), where maintenance facilities were available for an urgent inspection of the aircraft. The plane touched down on runway 19L at 22:24 EST, a little over two hours after its original departure. Following the landing, the Boeing 767-400ER taxied to Concourse D, where passengers were instructed to disembark as maintenance crews began inspecting the aircraft.

The diversion came as a result of a complex combination of issues, including the weather conditions at Newark, which led to delays and complicated the flight’s return plans. While passengers had hoped to continue their journey to Barcelona, the airline made the decision to prioritize safety by rerouting the aircraft. The maintenance inspection of the plane is currently underway, and passengers will be informed of any further updates regarding their travel.

Flight UA120’s diversion highlights the challenges airlines face when dealing with mechanical issues and adverse weather conditions. Snowstorms, particularly in major travel hubs like Newark, can severely disrupt flight schedules and impact the overall experience for travelers. The airline’s decision to divert the flight to Washington Dulles, rather than risk further complications, underscores the importance of precautionary measures to ensure passenger safety.

For travelers, this incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of being prepared for delays and diversions. Passengers planning flights during the winter season should consider potential weather disruptions and factor in extra time when traveling through regions prone to snowstorms and adverse conditions. United Airlines, like many carriers, regularly faces challenges associated with weather and operational hurdles, but this particular event serves as a stark reminder of the need for flexibility in the face of travel uncertainties.

While the diverted flight to Washington Dulles may have caused inconvenience for passengers, it also demonstrates the airline’s commitment to passenger safety and operational readiness. As winter storms continue to pose challenges for air travel, both passengers and airlines must stay vigilant and adaptable to ensure smooth travel experiences.

United Airlines, one of the largest U.S.-based carriers, operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to destinations across North America, Europe, and beyond. In this case, Flight UA120 was headed to Barcelona, a popular European destination known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant tourism industry. While the snowstorm in Newark forced an unexpected detour, travelers can look forward to completing their journey once the necessary maintenance and safety checks are completed.

United Airlines Flight UA120 diverted to Washington Dulles after a mechanical issue and snowstorm at Newark made a return impossible, ensuring passenger safety and enabling necessary maintenance.

In conclusion, while the diversion of United Airlines Flight UA120 to Washington Dulles was an unexpected turn of events, it highlights the critical role that airlines and airports play in ensuring the safety of passengers in the face of weather disruptions and mechanical issues. Travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight status and remain flexible when dealing with unexpected delays and diversions, especially during the winter months.