At least one passenger was taken to the hospital after a Southwest Airlines plane made an emergency landing in Philadelphia on Tuesday, officials said.
The passenger was reportedly hit with shrapnel when the plane’s engine exploded. A Southwest Airlines spokesperson said the plane diverted “because of an operational event” but photos appeared to show engine damage.
Fire crews were at the scene to evacuate the passengers on the plane. (FOX 29)
Flight 1380 was en route from LaGuardia Airport in New York City to Dallas Love Field when it was diverted to Philadelphia International Airport. The plane was carrying 143 passengers and five crewmembers when it landed.
WCAU reported the passenger who was hit by shrapnel was taken off the plane by being pulled through the aircraft’s window.
The Philadelphia Fire Department was on the scene helping evacuate passengers.
At least one person was taken to the hospital after a Southwest Airlines plane’s engine exploded. (FOX 29)
Marty Martinez, a passenger on the flight, posted a video on his personal Facebook page stating he was “recording his last moments.” Martinez told CBS News there was “blood everywhere” on the aircraft.
“We were probably going down for 10 to 15 minutes,” Martinez said. “And of course everyone is freaking out, everyone is crying. It was the scariest experience.”
Southwest said in a statement it was “aware” of the incident.
“We are in the process of gathering more information,” the statement said. “…Safety is always our top priority at Southwest Airlines, and we are working diligently to support our customers and crews at this time.”
The Philadelphia International Airport tweeted passengers “should expect delays” following the incident.
“Flight from LGA [LaGuardia] to Dallas Love Field landed safely at PHL [Philadelphia] and passengers are being brought into the terminal. Flights are departing and arriving but passengers should expect delays. Check flight status with your airline,” the airport tweeted.
