An Avianca flight bound for New York from Medellín made an emergency diversion to Miami International Airport early Friday morning. This decision came in the wake of severe turbulence, which resulted in injuries to nine individuals. Of these, eight required ambulance transport to nearby hospitals, as confirmed by local authorities.
The incident involved Avianca flight AV042, which had departed from José María Córdova Airport in Rionegro around 8:40 p.m. on Thursday.
The plane safely touched down in Miami at approximately 3:30 a.m. Eastern Time, after encountering what the airline described as "unexpected turbulence during the journey."
Injuries and Emergency Response
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue informed Telemundo 51 that they responded to an event involving "multiple patients injured by turbulence," with eight individuals transported by ambulance. One person was taken to a trauma center under a severe injury alert.
Avianca reported to CBS News Miami that the total number affected included nine people: six passengers and three cabin crew members. The exact condition of those injured was not immediately disclosed.
Passengers' Terrifying Accounts
Passengers recounted moments of panic during the turbulence. One individual told Telemundo 51, "We thought it was the last day. We thought we had reached our end. It was very intense, something we've never experienced before."
This traveler noted that there were at least three intense jolts, and upon landing, the sight of numerous ambulances on the runway was startling.
Another passenger, Luz Marina Gómez, shared with Colombian outlet Pulzo that the plane descended sharply several times, with the ordeal lasting between 20 and 30 minutes.
Maria Paula Jiménez mentioned to CBS News Miami the unusual scene upon landing: "When we arrived, when we landed, we saw more than five or six ambulances nearby. Seven of them had lights flashing, as if they were expecting something. It was not normal."
A cellphone video taken aboard showed passengers with ice packs on their heads while being instructed to keep seat belts fastened.
Avianca's Official Statement
In an official statement, Avianca explained that the diversion was a "precautionary measure in accordance with the airline's safety protocols," emphasizing that "the aircraft landed safely."
Regarding other passengers, Avianca assured that "the airport team has arranged necessary measures to ensure the continuation of their journey to New York, providing assistance and support at all times." The flight resumed its route around 8:15 a.m. the same Friday.
FAA Investigation and Broader Context
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed to CBS News Miami that an investigation into the incident will be conducted.
According to ABC7 Chicago, there were weather conditions in the area at the time, although authorities have not confirmed if weather directly caused the turbulence.
This incident occurred just a month after another tragedy at Miami International Airport, where a cargo plane veered off the runway, resulting in five fatalities, all Cuban workers of a contractor company.
Globally, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported a more than 25% increase in turbulence incidents in 2025 compared to the previous year. Scientific studies warn that severe clear-air turbulence could triple by the 2050s due to climate change.
Understanding Turbulence and Aviation Safety
What causes turbulence on flights?
Turbulence is caused by various factors, including weather conditions, jet streams, and air pressure differences. It's a common occurrence during flights, although severe turbulence can pose risks to passenger safety.
How do airlines ensure passenger safety during turbulence?
Airlines implement strict safety protocols, such as requiring passengers to fasten seat belts and securing cabin items. Pilots are trained to navigate through turbulent areas and, if necessary, divert flights to ensure safety.