An Avianca flight en route from Medellin to New York encountered severe turbulence, forcing the flight crew to make an unscheduled diversion to Miami International Airport, leaving several occupants injured and at least eight transported to local medical facilities.
Flight AV042, which departed Jose Maria Cordova International Airport at 10:40 p.m. on Thursday bound for New York, was scheduled to arrive at 8:25 a.m., according to flight-tracking data from FlightAware.
However, adverse weather conditions and an encounter with unexpected, severe turbulence en route prompted the crew to divert. The aircraft landed safely at Miami International Airport at 3:30 a.m. local time on Friday after declaring a precautionary contingency.
Assessment of Affected Passengers and Immediate Medical Response
Upon touchdown in U.S. territory, ground personnel and airport emergency response teams initiated rapid protocols to attend to those on board.
The operational and medical report confirmed the following breakdown:
- Individuals affected: A total of nine people sustained injuries or issues directly associated with the turbulence encounter.
- Breakdown of injured occupants: The group comprised three cabin crew members and six passengers.
- Hospitalizations: At least eight individuals were transported to area hospitals following an initial on-site medical evaluation.
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Operational Measures and Onward Travel
In a statement, Avianca detailed the deployment of its assistance protocols for both the injured and the remaining passengers:
“As a precautionary measure and in accordance with the airline’s safety protocols, Flight AV042 diverted to Miami International Airport, where the aircraft landed safely. Upon arrival, Avianca personnel and airport emergency medical services activated the appropriate protocols to provide immediate medical attention.”
For passengers who did not require medical transport, airport customer care teams coordinated alternative travel arrangements to ensure the continuation of their itineraries to New York, providing continuous support and guidance throughout the process.
The carrier emphasized that it remains in regular contact with the affected passengers and crew members while managing the contingency, reiterating that the safety of both passengers and crew remains the top priority across its operations.
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