WACO, Texas - A United Airlines flight experienced severe turbulence on Sunday evening, forcing it to divert from its original route and land safely at Waco Regional Airport. Flight 5690, operated by SkyWest Airlines under the United Express banner, was en route from Springfield, Missouri, to Houston, Texas, when turbulence struck, leading to injuries among some passengers.
The flight, which carried 31 individuals, including 28 passengers, landed at approximately 6:30 p.m. local time. According to reports, the turbulence was encountered as the aircraft entered Texas, coinciding with strong storms affecting the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Ryan Dirker, the emergency management coordinator for the McLennan County Office of Emergency Management, confirmed the turbulence led to injuries, stating, "They had turbulence."
Upon landing, medical personnel were immediately on-site to evaluate the situation. Five passengers were transported to Hillcrest Baylor Scott & White hospital for treatment, though their injuries were deemed non-life-threatening. "SkyWest flight 5690, operating as United Express from Springfield, MO to Houston, landed safely at Waco Regional Airport after experiencing turbulence. Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital," said a spokesperson from SkyWest Airlines.
Following the incident, Waco emergency services and fire crews responded rapidly to assist passengers and provide necessary care. City officials confirmed they were prepared to facilitate transportation for those who did not suffer injuries and were still at the airport.
Michael Reisman, Interim Director of Aviation at Waco Regional Airport, expressed gratitude for the coordinated efforts of the emergency services responding to the incident. He noted, "SkyWest and United are making sure the injured customers get the care they need and are working to line up new transportation options for everyone on this flight." The airline is currently arranging for alternative transportation to Houston for the remaining passengers.
The aircraft, which remained on the ground at Waco for inspection, is expected to be assessed over the next few days by mechanics to confirm its condition before returning to service. Reisman added, "The United Airlines plane will be in Waco for a day or two so mechanics can take a look at the aircraft." There were additional reports of other flights being diverted to Waco, including two American Airlines flights, but the details surrounding those incidents are still being gathered.
Passengers who were diverted faced confusion as they sought next steps after the turbulent events. "A great majority of them are still at the airport trying to figure out next steps," Dirker noted. United Airlines is working on their recovery plan to potentially send another aircraft to retrieve passengers from the diverted flight.
Flight 5690 departed Springfield-Branson National Airport at around 5:00 p.m. and was airborne for about one hour and forty minutes before the diversion. According to data from FlightAware, the aircraft began its descent after struggling against the turbulent weather as it approached the Waco area.
Weather conditions throughout the region continue to be challenging, prompting airlines to adjust their flight paths accordingly. Inclement weather across various airports is particularly common during this time of year, especially as storm fronts move through Texas. Observers are encouraged to keep updated with their flight statuses and heed any warnings from airlines.
The story behind Sunday’s turbulent flight serves as a reminder of the unforeseen nature of air travel and the importance of preparedness by airline and emergency management personnel to handle such incidents. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant about their flights amid changing weather, and airlines continue to prioritize passenger safety above all.
The airlines involved and local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals aboard Flight 5690. With the diversions and emergency measures taken, the incident highlights the collaborative efforts of emergency services and aviation personnel to address swiftly and effectively any threats to passenger safety.