Severe Turbulence Forces NYC-Bound Flight from Colombia to Divert; 8 Hospitalized

On Friday morning, several individuals were hospitalized after an Avianca flight heading to New York City from Colombia encountered severe turbulence, prompting a diversion to Miami International Airport. The flight, designated as Avianca Flight 42, took off from Medellín and was on its way to John F. Kennedy International Airport when it faced unexpected turbulence.

A spokesperson for the airline stated that the plane was diverted to Miami as a precaution and landed safely at 3:30 a.m. Eight people, including three crew members and six passengers, suffered injuries, though the severity of their conditions remains unclear. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue reported responding to multiple injuries due to turbulence, and video from inside the aircraft showed passengers using ice packs as they were advised to keep their seat belts fastened. Passengers described the flight as intensely frightening, with one woman recalling three significant episodes of turbulence.