Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Sudden Altitude Drop Forces JetBlue Flight to Divert to Tampa, Injuring at Least 15

Federal investigators are reviewing a reported flight-control problem, with JetBlue conducting its own inspection.

Overview

  • JetBlue Flight 1230 from Cancún to Newark diverted to Tampa around 2:20 p.m. ET after a sharp loss of altitude linked to a flight-control issue.
  • Tampa Bay Fire Rescue said 15 to 20 people were transported to hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, and a local hospital reported discharging patients.
  • Air traffic control audio captured the crew reporting at least three injuries, including a possible head laceration, during the diversion.
  • Flight-tracking data indicated the A320 descended about 14,500 feet in five minutes, then another 12,200 feet in the following five minutes before heading to Tampa.
  • JetBlue removed the aircraft from service for inspection as the FAA investigates; the NTSB was informed but had not launched a separate probe in initial reports.