Colorado Rockies Hitting Coach Under Investigation for Unauthorized Inflight Cockpit Visit

On April 10, a United Airlines charter flight from Denver to Toronto witnessed an unauthorized inflight cockpit visit. This unprecedented incident is currently under investigation by federal transportation officials.

Video footage that has surfaced shows Rockies hitting coach Hensley Meulens sitting in a pilot's seat while the flight was at cruising altitude. This behavior is a clear violation of federal regulations, as unauthorized individuals are not permitted in the flight deck.

The video depicts Meulens engaging in conversation and jest with individuals in the cockpit, including a person in a pilot's uniform and at least one other individual who does not appear to be an airline employee. Meulens is heard stating the plane's altitude at 35,000 feet (10,670 meters) and jokingly suggesting that he is "flying the plane."

Meulens further jokes about landing the plane and pretends to operate the flight controls. Although he posted the video on social media and subsequently deleted it, the content had already gone viral and was reposted.

Rockies' manager Bud Black stated that Meulens expressed contrition, and his job at the Rockies is not in jeopardy. However, both United Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration initiated investigations into the matter due to the serious breach of safety and operational policies.

A United spokesperson emphasized that the cockpit visit was a "clear violation” of safety and operational policies and has reported the incident to the Federal Aviation Administration. The airline has taken the pilots on the flight off duty while the investigation is ongoing, emphasizing its commitment to addressing this matter seriously.

The Federal Aviation Administration affirmed that federal regulations strictly limit flight deck access to specific individuals, underlining the gravity of the breach.

Subsequent Oversight

It's important to note that United Airlines has faced multiple issues in recent weeks, necessitating increased oversight from the Federal Aviation Administration. The airline's CEO has endeavored to reassure travelers of the airline's safety amidst these challenges. Moreover, Major League Baseball has acknowledged the ongoing Federal Aviation Administration probe and expressed its vigilance regarding the matter.