United Cancels Boeing 777 Tribute Flyover Over Denver
United Airlines cancelled its tribute flyover over Denver International Airport on September 11, marking the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The airline had planned to feature a Boeing 777 widebody jet flying at low altitude alongside four U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jets in an unusual display.
The event was intended as a tribute to the victims and their families, but critics raised concerns about the optics and safety of staging such a maneuver on the anniversary of a terrorist attack that involved hijacked commercial aircraft. Others questioned whether a low-altitude pass by a commercial jetliner escorted by fighter aircraft was an appropriate way to commemorate the attacks.
United Airlines spent weeks planning the event, coordinating with government agencies and airport officials. However, the airline ultimately decided not to proceed with the flyover due to growing concern about its appropriateness and safety. The airline will still mark the anniversary with other observances, including moments of silence and internal memorial events.