United Airlines has cancelled a planned 9/11 commemorative flyover over Denver that was to feature a Boeing 777 escorted by four F-16s. The display, linked to the airline’s Denver training centre and intended to pass over the site from Denver International Airport, was withdrawn after community concerns prompted a public-safety response in the city.
Denver officials had warned residents in advance that the aircraft formation could be mistaken for an emergency, given the presence of a commercial jet and military fighters. The flyover had been set for the eve of the 25th anniversary of the attacks and was designed as a private remembrance for employees rather than a public ceremony. Other memorial activities at United facilities in Denver were expected to continue.
The cancellation leaves in place the sensitivities around airspace displays involving commercial aircraft and military escorts, particularly near major airports and during 9/11 commemorations. The Colorado Air National Guard’s 120th Fighter Squadron had been part of the planned tribute, which was under state review when the decision was taken to abandon the flyover.