At least 15 individuals have been taken to a hospital after a drop in altitude on a JetBlue flight forced an emergency touchdown Thursday in Tampa, officers mentioned.
JetBlue flight 1230 was touring from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark, New Jersey, when it “experienced a drop in altitude,” JetBlue mentioned in an announcement. The aircraft was diverted to Tampa International Airport round 2 p.m. ET, the Federal Aviation Administration mentioned.
The flight disruption comes amid a worrying surroundings for air journey because the month-long authorities shutdown raises staffing points for air traffic controllers and fuels flight delays, all whereas the holiday travel season looms.
The FAA mentioned it’s investigating the “flight control issue” on the Airbus A320. It’s unclear if the National Transportation Safety Board will even examine.
The flight was met on the bottom by medical personnel, a Tampa International Airport spokesperson mentioned.
Approximately 15 to 20 individuals have been evaluated and transported to a hospital for non-life-threatening accidents, Tampa Bay Fire Rescue spokesperson Vivian Shedd mentioned. No additional particulars have been out there on the character of the accidents.
Air site visitors audio from LiveATC.net captured a radio name that reported accidents aboard the aircraft, together with “maybe a laceration in the head,” the Associated Press reported.
It’s unclear why the aircraft dropped in altitude.
“Our team has taken the aircraft out of service for inspection, and we will conduct a full investigation to determine the cause,” JetBlue mentioned in their assertion. “The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved.”
The incident occurred simply after a robust chilly entrance handed by way of Florida, leaving in its wake gusty winds and lightweight rain showers.