Minneapolis: A Delta Air Lines flight travelling from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam, was forced to make an emergency landing in Minnesota on Wednesday evening (July 30) after encountering severe mid-air turbulence which left at least 25 people needing hospital care.
The aircraft, an Airbus A330-900 operating as flight DL56, was diverted to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, where it landed safely around 7:25 pm local time. Passengers and crew were met by medical teams on arrival, with emergency responders providing immediate attention. Delta confirmed that 25 individuals were taken to local hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.
Have a look at their official statement here:
Minneapolis Airport Provides Aid
Delta in its statement, confirmed the incident and expressed appreciation for the emergency response. “The aircraft, an Airbus A330-900, landed safely at MSP, and medical personnel met the flight upon arrival to evaluate customers and crew. Twenty-five of those on board were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and care. We are grateful for the support of all emergency responders involved,” the airline said.
An airport spokesperson told CNN that the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport Fire Department and paramedics met the plane at the gate and provided initial medical attention to passengers in need. Delta’s Care Team is now working directly with the affected passengers to support their immediate needs. The airline did not disclose the total number of passengers onboard.
Turbulence-Related Injuries Spark Concern
While incidents of severe in-flight turbulence are relatively rare, the Delta flight adds to a growing list of mid-air emergencies drawing concern. Scientists have warned that such turbulence may become more common as climate change alters the jet stream.
Just two months ago, a Singapore Airlines flight was hit by violent turbulence, resulting in the death of one passenger, reportedly the first fatality from turbulence on a commercial airline in decades.
In an unrelated incident on the same day, a US Navy F-35 fighter jet crashed near Naval Air Station Lemoore in California. The pilot ejected safely and the cause is currently under investigation.
