JetBlue flight diverted to Tampa after altitude loss, control issue

A JetBlue flight from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark, New Jersey, made an emergency landing at Tampa International Airport on Thursday after the aircraft experienced a sudden drop in altitude and a reported flight control issue, officials said. The Airbus A320, operating as JetBlue Flight 1230, diverted to Tampa at about 2:20 p.m. Eastern. Several passengers were injured and received medical attention; some were taken to local hospitals.

The Federal Aviation Administration said the flight diverted after the crew reported a flight control problem. JetBlue confirmed the aircraft experienced a drop in altitude and that medical personnel were waiting when the plane landed. "The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our first priority, and we will work to support those involved," the airline said in a statement. The carrier also said the aircraft has been taken out of service for inspection and that it will conduct a full internal review.

Passengers and crew were evaluated at the airport. While the airline did not provide a final count of the injured, pilots told air traffic controllers that at least three people sustained injuries consistent with lacerations, according to...