An Alaska Airlines flight from San Diego to Lihue, Kauai, turned around midjourney yesterday after several crew members and passengers started feeling sick, prompting EMTs to meet the jet at the gate and pulling the aircraft from service for inspection.
According to FOX 5 San Diego, Alaska Airlines Flight 217 departed San Diego and was about 1 hour and 20 minutes into the roughly 6-hour, 40-minute trip when crew members and some travelers reported nausea and illness. Out of what the airline characterized as an abundance of caution, the pilots diverted back to San Diego International Airport, where EMTs responded at the gate. A small number of people were evaluated, and none were transported to a hospital, FOX 5 reported.
Timeline And What Officials Say
Yahoo News reported that after the jet returned and landed, it was removed from service and sent for a post-flight inspection. As of Thursday evening, the airline had not released an official cause for the reported illnesses.
Airline Response
In an email to FOX 5/KUSI, Alaska Airlines said, "We are in the process of reaccommodating our guests and we apologize for any inconvenience or concern this situation may have caused." The carrier confirmed the aircraft would remain out of service while the inspection is completed.
Airport Operations
San Diego International Airport officials said the unexpected return of Flight 217 did not disrupt overall airport operations, according to FOX 5 San Diego. Additional operational details had not been released as of Thursday night.
What Travelers Should Know
Passengers booked on Alaska Airlines flights are being advised to check their reservation status and contact the airline directly for rebooking and assistance. For the latest updates and any travel alerts, Alaska Airlines posts notices and flight-status information on its site: Alaska Airlines.
