United Airlines flight makes emergency landing after severe turbulence, many injured

A

United Airlines flight

was forced to make an

emergency landing

at

Memphis International Airport

after experiencing

severe turbulence

, resulting in

injuries

to at least six passengers, according to the Memphis Fire Department (MFD).
United Flight 1196, a Boeing 737 en route from Cancun, Mexico, to Chicago O'Hare International Airport, encountered turbulence over New Orleans, prompting the crew to divert to Memphis.

The flight, carrying 179 people including passengers and crew, landed safely at approximately 2:50 pm local time on Wednesday, August 28.
The MFD reported that while six individuals sustained minor injuries, one person was transported to the hospital in non-critical condition. The remaining injured passengers declined treatment and transport. United Airlines confirmed that the seatbelt sign was illuminated during the turbulence.
In response to the incident, United Airlines expressed appreciation for the crew's efforts to ensure safety. “We’re grateful to our crew for their efforts to ensure the safety of our employees and customers and we expect the flight to depart for Chicago soon,” the airline said, reported Localmemphis.com.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced an investigation into the turbulence incident. The FAA's statement read, “United Airlines Flight 1196 landed safely at Memphis International Airport after the crew reported severe turbulence over Louisiana. The FAA will investigate.”
The incident highlights the potential hazards of air travel and the importance of adhering to safety protocols during turbulent conditions.