A JetBlue flight from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark Liberty International Airport made an emergency landing Thursday after a sudden drop in altitude. Around 15 to 20 people were hurt, authorities said.
Flight 1230, an Airbus A320 with 162 people on board, dropped about 100 feet in roughly seven seconds just before 2 p.m., according to flight-tracking data. Pilots got the plane under control and diverted to Tampa International Airport, where emergency crews were waiting. Some passengers and crew were taken to local hospitals. Their injuries didn’t appear life-threatening, Tampa Fire Rescue said.
Air traffic recordings captured pilots saying at least three people were injured, including a possible head laceration. They also said the problem seemed to come from a flight control issue. Weather was calm at the time.
Passengers said the plane jolted suddenly during the drop, prompting pilots to call for medical assistance. Emergency personnel met the plane on the tarmac and evaluated those who were hurt before taking them to hospitals for further care.
JetBlue said the plane has been removed from service for inspection. The airline and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the incident. JetBlue added that it is assisting passengers and crew affected by the emergency landing.
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