At least 15 people were rushed to hospitals Thursday after a JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark suddenly dropped hundreds of feet midair, forcing an emergency landing in Tampa, Florida.
JetBlue Flight 1230, an Airbus A320, was cruising over the Gulf of Mexico when it reportedly plunged about 100 feet in just seven seconds. Passengers screamed as oxygen masks deployed and flight attendants called for help.
The airline confirmed the flight “experienced a drop in altitude” and diverted to Tampa around 2 p.m. ET. Paramedics were waiting on the runway to treat injured passengers, and at least 15 were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Tampa Bay Fire Rescue.
Federal officials say the terrifying plunge may have been linked to a “flight control issue.” The FAA is leading the investigation, and the National Transportation Safety Board has been notified.
In radio recordings captured by LiveATC.net, pilots can be heard telling air traffic controllers about injuries on board, including “maybe a laceration in the head.” JetBlue said the plane has been taken out of service for a full inspection.
The incident adds to a growing list of aviation scares this year — from near-collisions to turbulence injuries — as airlines struggle with mechanical issues and staffing shortages amid a turbulent travel season.
A cold front was passing through Florida at the time, bringing gusty winds and rain, though officials haven’t confirmed whether weather played a role.
JetBlue said in a statement: “The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved.”
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