At least six people on a United Airlines flight bound for New Jersey were hospitalized after the plane was diverted to New York Stewart International Airport due to high winds and a sick passenger. The flight originally departed from Tel Aviv, Israel, and landed safely in New Windsor around 6:45 p.m. after encountering high winds at Newark Liberty International Airport. Despite reports of turbulence, a United spokesperson clarified that there was no “extreme turbulence” during the incident. Twenty-five EMTs and paramedics responded to the airport to assist passengers.
Upon landing at the New Windsor airport, some passengers were treated for minor ailments and six were taken to local hospitals. According to a statement from United Airlines, one passenger was taken off the plane due to a medical incident, and a few others were assessed by medical personnel for possible motion sickness. The flight was refueled and continued on to Newark following the medical emergencies. The FAA is currently investigating the incident to determine the cause of the medical issues experienced by passengers on the flight.
The incident on United Airlines flight 85 highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of having trained medical staff and emergency responders on hand to assist passengers in need. With a total of 310 passengers and crew on board, the response by 25 EMTs and paramedics at the New Windsor airport demonstrates the readiness of emergency personnel to handle unexpected situations. It also underscores the need for airlines to have protocols in place for dealing with medical emergencies during flights.
The diversion of the flight due to high winds and a sick passenger underscores the challenges that can arise during air travel, especially on long international flights. While the exact nature of the medical issues experienced by passengers on the flight has not been disclosed, the response by United Airlines and emergency responders highlights the importance of having appropriate medical resources available on board commercial flights. The incident also serves as a reminder for passengers to be prepared for unexpected situations and to follow safety protocols provided by the airline staff during emergencies.
The FAA investigation into the incident will likely focus on the circumstances that led to the diversion of the flight and the medical issues experienced by passengers. By conducting a thorough review of the incident, the FAA can help to identify any potential safety concerns or lapses in protocol that may have contributed to the medical emergencies on board the United Airlines flight. This investigation will be important for ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers on future flights and for preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Overall, the incident on United Airlines flight 85 serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities of air travel, as well as the importance of having trained medical personnel and emergency responders available to assist passengers in need. By responding quickly and effectively to medical emergencies, airlines and emergency responders can help ensure the safety and well-being of passengers on board commercial flights. The FAA investigation into the incident will provide valuable insights into the circumstances surrounding the diversion of the flight and the medical issues experienced by passengers, helping to inform future safety protocols and practices in the aviation industry.
