NJ-Bound Plane Makes Emergency Landing, 15+ Injured

TAMPA, FL — At least 15 people were injured on Thursday when a JetBlue flight bound for New Jersey lost altitude and was forced to make an emergency landing in Florida, according to officials and a report.

JetBlue flight 1230 had left Cancun International Airport and was headed to Newark Liberty International Airport when the aircraft suddenly experienced a drop in altitude, the airline said in a statement.

The incident prompted the pilots to make an emergency landing at Tampa International Airport around 2 p.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Data from Flightradar24 showed the plane dropped about 100 feet in about seven seconds around 1:48 p.m. before it made a more normal descent into Tampa.

The flight was met by medical personnel who evaluated passengers and crew members, JetBlue said, and those needing treatment were taken to local hospitals.

At least 15 people, including children, suffered injuries, officials told CNN. The nature and severity of their injuries were unknown.

It's unclear how many passengers and crew members were on board the flight. The plane has 162 seats, according to JetBlue’s website.

JetBlue said the aircraft was taken out of service for inspection. Both the airline and the FAA are investigating the incident.

"The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved," JetBlue said in a statement.