Plane Makes Emergency Landing In FL, 15 Hospitalized

TAMPA, FL — A JetBlue flight bound for New Jersey was diverted to Tampa due to a loss in altitude Thursday, leaving at least 15 people hospitalized, media reports say.

Flight 1230 was traveling from Cancun International Airport in Mexico to Newark Liberty International Airport, according to FlightAware.

The flight diverted around 2 p.m. after dropping 100 feet in 7 seconds before landing at Tampa International Airport, CNN reported. The cause for the drop in altitude was not immediately clear.

The Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement: "JetBlue Airlines Flight 1230 diverted to Tampa International Airport around 2:00 p.m. local time on Oct. 30 after the crew experienced a flight control issue. The Airbus 320 left Cancun International Airport and was headed to Newark Liberty International Airport. The FAA is investigating. Please contact the airline for more information."

Tampa Bay Fire Rescue spokesperson Vivian Shedd told reporters about 15 to 20 people were taken to a local hospital with injuries that were not life threatening.

“Our team has taken the aircraft out of service for inspection, and we will conduct a full investigation to determine the cause,” JetBlue said in its statement to media. “The safety of our customers and crew members is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved.”