Seven people were taken to the hospital after a United Airlines plane bound for Newark ran into “severe turbulence” on Friday, officials said.
The flight, which was scheduled to arrive from Tel Aviv, was forced to land at New York's Stewart International Airport (SWF) after what the FAA said was a “passenger medical emergency.” CNN mentioned.
United said in a statement that high winds were reported around Newark.
“Upon arrival, the flight crew encountered our first EMS unit on scene and reported that they experienced severe turbulence while landing in Newark and were diverted to New York International Airport and notified our crew,” said Michael Page, chief of New Windsor Emergency Medical Services. There were several people on board complaining of nausea and some chest pain due to the turbulence.”
Page said about 319 people were on board.
He added: “We evaluated about 30 people, and transferred seven to the local hospital for observation only. There were no serious injuries or illnesses.” “Most people just wanted to get checked out at their local emergency room.”
Data from flight tracking website Flightradar24 shows the plane passed over Newark Airport before turning back around and landing at SWF Airport.
United said the plane then refueled before continuing its flight to Newark Liberty International Airport. NBC News mentioned.
United only Resuming flights between Tel Aviv and Newark In March, after it was suspended in October following the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Gaza.
The airline said it made the decision after conducting a “detailed safety analysis” and that it would “continue to monitor the situation in Tel Aviv and adjust the schedule as necessary.”
Business Insider has contacted United Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for comment.
A United flight from San Francisco to Paris also faced a diversion Thursday evening after the crew reported an engine problem.
Flight data shows the plane was about to head over the Canadian border when it returned and landed in Denver.
The FAA said the plane landed safely “after the crew reported a potential mechanical issue.” CBS News mentioned.
Airlines have come under extra scrutiny recently since a commission blew up an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 shortly after takeoff.
United CEO Scott Kirby The airline said earlier this month that the airline would review recent safety incidents involving its fleet to update safety procedures and training.
“Safety is our top priority and is at the center of everything we do,” Kirby said.
“Unapologetic reader. Social media maven. Beer lover. Food fanatic. Zombie advocate. Bacon aficionado. Web practitioner.”
More Stories
Scott Sheffield: The American oil tycoon is accused of trying to conspire with OPEC to inflate prices
Grylls judges US and Google over antitrust claims
Couple Accidentally Shipped Their Cat With Amazon Returns – 1 Week and 3 'Miracles' Later They Were Reunited