United Airlines flight turns back to Newark after Bluetooth device named “BOMB” triggers security alert

A United Airlines Boeing 767 operating Flight UA236 from Newark Liberty International Airport to Palma de Mallorca was forced to return to Newark when a passenger reported a Bluetooth device showing up as “BOMB” in the aircraft’s wireless scan list. The crew instructed passengers to disable Bluetooth, but could not locate the source. The aircraft, carrying about 190 passengers and 12 crew members, landed safely and all occupants were taken off for a thorough security inspection.

Federal authorities, including the FBI, examined the aircraft and luggage but found no explosives or actual bomb threat. Investigation later identified the signal as coming from a personal Bluetooth device owned by a 16‑year‑old passenger; reports varied on whether it was a Fitbit, a Bluetooth speaker, or another wearable. No charges were filed, and a new flight crew resumed the journey to Spain after the clearance.

The incident highlights the strict protocols for any indication of explosives in aviation security, even when the alert originates from a harmless consumer gadget.