Five Hospitalized After Fumes Force American Airlines Flight to Divert

Five people were hospitalized after fumes were detected onboard an American Airlines flight from Orlando to Phoenix, forcing the aircraft to divert to Houston on Sunday evening (Nov. 23), according to the airline and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

American Airlines Flight 2118 had departed Orlando International Airport en route to Phoenix Sky Harbor when the crew reported fumes in both the flight deck and the cabin. The FAA said the pilots diverted the aircraft to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, where it landed safely at around 7:10 p.m. local time. The agency confirmed it has opened an investigation into the incident.

According to CBS affiliate KHOU-TV, a crew member radioed ahead while the aircraft was diverting, saying, “I’m gonna have some transports here out of the airport on this,” indicating that medical assistance would be needed upon arrival.

American Airlines said four flight attendants and one passenger were transported to a hospital “out of an abundance of caution” after the emergency landing. First responders met the aircraft at the gate as passengers disembarked.

“American Airlines Flight 2118 landed safely and taxied to the gate under its own power at Houston (IAH) following reports of an odor on board,” the airline said in a statement. “We thank our team members for their professionalism and apologize to our customers for their experience.”

After the diversion, passengers continued their journey on a replacement aircraft, and the flight departed Houston shortly afterward, American Airlines confirmed.

The FAA will review the source of the fumes as part of its investigation.


Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=american+airlines, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com, KHOU-TV