HOUSTON— In March 2024, a United Airlines (UA) Boeing 737 MAX 8 experienced a runway excursion at Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH), ending partially off the paved surface and onto the surrounding grass. The incident, caused primarily by pilot error, did not result in any injuries, but the aircraft suffered significant damage, particularly to the landing gear.
The event has gained renewed attention following a YouTube analysis of the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), which offers an unprecedented look into the pilots’ reactions in the moments after the accident. Experts and aviation enthusiasts alike find the post-incident communication particularly illuminating, as it captures both procedural responses and candid human reactions rarely documented in non-fatal incidents.
Photo: Clément Alloing
United’s MAX 8 Incident Overview
The excursion occurred when the very experienced captain attempted to shorten taxi time by rolling toward the end of the long runway.
The aircraft did not decelerate adequately, and the captain did not adhere to United’s published procedures for a wet runway. As a result, the plane left the runway surface and came to rest partly on the grass.
The first immediate actions focused on safety management. Unlike typical emergency evacuations via slides, which often result in minor injuries, the pilots elected to wait onboard until stairs were brought to the aircraft.
This decision allowed an extended recording of cockpit conversations, providing insight into decision-making under stress.
Photo: By JacobAviation – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=90999201
Cockpit Voice Recorder Reactions
The CVR reveals the captain’s initial communication with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), reflecting a mix of professional protocol and personal concerns.
He reported the runway excursion, described the landing gear damage, and sought guidance on handling the situation without escalating passenger involvement.
The ALPA representative emphasized procedure adherence, advising minimal communication until official debriefs could occur, reported One Mile At a Time.
Notably, the captain’s focus included avoiding boarding the terminal bus with passengers, showing the human side of managing stress in high-pressure situations.
The first officer received repeated apologies, with the captain expressing immediate regret for misjudging the landing parameters. Such exchanges highlight the psychological impact of even non-injury incidents on flight crews.
Photo: Clément Alloing
Safety Procedures
The pilots methodically completed all necessary safety and emergency protocols while remaining onboard.
They secured the aircraft, confirmed fuel management, and coordinated with ground teams for orderly disembarkation.
ALPA guidance ensured adherence to procedural and regulatory requirements while protecting the crew from premature or public commentary.
Following the initial assessment, the crew was instructed to proceed to the chief pilot’s office for standard post-incident testing, including a drug and alcohol screening.
The structured response ensured both compliance and professional support, demonstrating the effectiveness of union coordination during unusual operational events.
United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX TAKEOFF from Chicago. Photo: Cado Photo
Bottom Line
The March 2024 United Airlines 737 MAX incident at Houston Intercontinental Airport serves as a case study in both procedural compliance and human response under pressure.
The extended cockpit voice recorder provides a rare window into how pilots manage stress, communicate with unions, and make strategic safety decisions.
While the runway excursion caused aircraft damage, the careful handling prevented injuries and preserved valuable operational learning for the airline and broader aviation community.
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