A JetBlue flight traveling from Cancun, Mexico to Newark, New Jersey was forced to divert to Tampa on Thursday after experiencing a concerning drop in altitude. The incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. local time, prompting the crew to make an emergency landing at Tampa International Airport.
Upon landing, medical personnel were on standby to evaluate both passengers and crew. According to officials from Tampa Fire Rescue, between 15 to 20 individuals were assessed and transported to nearby hospitals with injuries that were fortunately not life-threatening.
Following the incident, JetBlue confirmed that the aircraft, designated Flight 1230, would be taken out of service for a thorough inspection to determine the cause of the altitude drop. The investigation will be led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which has acknowledged flight control issues played a role in the diversion.
JetBlue representatives emphasized their commitment to safety, stating, “The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved.” The airline is collaborating with authorities to ensure a detailed assessment is conducted.
While the incident caused concern among passengers, the quick response by the flight crew and emergency services helped mitigate potential risks. As investigations continue, there is a hopeful outlook that a thorough understanding of the situation will enhance safety measures for future flights.