Turbulence diverts Delta flight to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport; 25 passengers hospitalized

Passengers injured by in-flight turbulence prompts emergency landing in Minneapolis

Passengers injured by in-flight turbulence prompts emergency landing in Minneapolis

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A plane made an emergency landing at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport on Wednesday after dozens of passengers were injured by “significant” in-flight turbulence.

The airport says Delta Air Lines Flight 56 en route from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam diverted to MSP, landing safely around 7:45 p.m.

The MSP Airport Fire Department and several paramedics responded at the gate, providing initial medical attention to passengers in need. Delta says 25 passengers were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and care.

Based on preliminary flight data, about 45 minutes into the flight the plane experienced fluctuations in altitude consistent with intense turbulence as it was flying over Wyoming, before changing course for MSP.  

“We are grateful for the support of all emergency responders involved,” a spokesperson for Delta said. “Safety is our No. 1 value at Delta, and our Delta Care Team is working directly with customers to support their immediate needs.”

The aircraft, an Airbus A330-900, had 275 passengers and 13 crew members on board.

The Federal Aviation Administration says it will investigate the incident.

Kris Van Cleave

contributed to this report.

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Riley Moser is a digital producer who covers breaking news and feature stories for CBS Minnesota. Riley started her career at CBS Minnesota in June 2022 and earned an honorable mention for sports writing from the Iowa College Media Association the same year.

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