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Spirit Flight Near Hurricane Erin Draws Scrutiny as Airline, Experts Say Routing Was Safe

Tracking images fueled concern over a route that experts describe as standard high-altitude avoidance.

Overview

  • Flight NK2298 from Philadelphia to San Juan on Monday appeared on Flightradar24 to pass through the Category 4 storm’s path.
  • FlightAware data indicated the Airbus A320neo skirted outer bands rather than penetrating the core of Erin.
  • Spirit reported normal operations with no injuries, citing adherence to ATC guidance and established procedures.
  • The jet landed in San Juan about 52 minutes late, and subsequent flights on the route detoured farther around the system.
  • Hurricane Erin has weakened to Category 2, and specialists, including MIT’s John Hansman, say cruising above or between bands can be routine.