A Frontier Airlines flight from St. Louis to Punta Cana turned tense midair when the crew reported engine trouble and diverted to Nashville, according to passengers. The aircraft left Lambert–St. Louis International Airport and landed at Nashville International Airport, where emergency responders met the jet and began inspecting it on the tarmac. Inside the cabin, alarms sounded and crew members directed everyone to remain seated as the situation played out, several passengers said.
Flight history and diversion
Flight trackers list the trip as Frontier flight F96, and Flightradar24 shows the plane departing St. Louis and diverting to Nashville on March 30, 2026. Public flight logs also reflect an unscheduled arrival at Nashville International Airport and a route change that day.
Passengers reported panic onboard
Passengers told KSDK they heard alarms as flight attendants moved quickly through the cabin, securing the area and working through emergency procedures. Some described moments of panic while others tried to console seatmates during the diversion, according to the station’s report and accompanying video.
Plane inspected after landing
Tracking records identify the jet involved as N622FR, and AirNavRadar lists both the registration and the unscheduled arrival at BNA. Airport records indicate the aircraft was met by personnel for a post-landing inspection before passengers were allowed to deplane.
Why crews divert
Aviation rules require pilots to land at the nearest suitable airport when an engine fails or is shut down to prevent damage, although crews have some discretion in multi-engine situations. That guidance is laid out in 14 CFR §121.565, which also compels carriers to report engine shutdowns and related mechanical interruptions.
Local reports say passengers were deplaned and assisted after the inspection, and no additional details about the cause of the reported engine trouble had been released in early coverage. This story will be updated if Frontier, airport officials or regulators issue a public statement or announce a follow-up inquiry.
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