Eight individuals were sent to the hospital after JetBlue flight 1256 encountered unexpected and severe turbulence while approaching Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The aircraft was traveling from Guayaquil, Ecuador when the incident occurred. After a safe landing at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, seven passengers and one crew member were transported to a local hospital for treatment and evaluation.
The extent of the injuries sustained by those onboard is currently unknown. JetBlue officials have stated that they will provide assistance and support to affected customers and crew members. The aircraft involved in the turbulence has been taken out of service to undergo inspection.
In response to the incident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation. The NTSB announced via Twitter that they are looking into the incident involving JetBlue flight 1256, an Airbus A320, which encountered the turbulence during cruise flight near Jamaica on its way to Fort Lauderdale. The agency reported that numerous injuries were reported.
This incident adds to a growing number of cases this year where individuals have been injured due to severe turbulence during flights. Just a month ago, 11 people were hospitalized after a Delta flight experienced turbulence while approaching Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. In March, a Bombardier CL30 jet encountered severe turbulence, resulting in one fatality and a diversion to Bradley International Airport. Additionally, other incidents involving Lufthansa and Condor flights resulted in injuries to passengers and crew members.
It is important for airlines and passengers to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols in order to minimize the risks associated with turbulence during flights.
Sources:
- CBS News
- NTSB Newsroom