UPS Boeing 767-300F Returns to Spokane Due to False Fire Alarm in Cargo Hold

A UPS Airlines Boeing 767-300F cargo aircraft was forced to return to Spokane International Airport on October 23, 2024, after receiving indications of a possible fire in the cargo hold. The aircraft, which had departed from Spokane and was headed to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky, declared an emergency at an altitude of 31,000 feet just 48 minutes into the flight. The pilots immediately returned to Spokane, where the aircraft landed safely without further incident.

After a thorough inspection at the gate, it was confirmed that there was no fire onboard, and the warning had been triggered by a faulty indicator light. UPS Airlines issued a statement confirming the malfunction, which was reported by local news outlet NonStop Local. No injuries were reported, and the flight was able to proceed once the issue was resolved.

This incident marks the second time in 2024 that a UPS Boeing 767-300F has had to return to its departure airport. Earlier this year, another aircraft returned to Sydney shortly after takeoff due to a fuel leak. These incidents highlight the importance of precautionary safety measures even when the issue turns out to be a false alarm.