A United Airlines flight headed to Newark International Airport in New Jersey was diverted to New York Stewart International Airport due to high winds.
United Airlines Flight 85 originated in Tel Aviv, Israel and was reportedly approximately 750 feet from the runway at Newark when the flight crew reported a wind sheer. The Boeing 787 was diverted in New Windsor around 6:45 p.m.
“Earlier today, a United Airlines flight was diverted from Newark Airport in New Jersey to Stewart International Airport in New Windsor, New York due to high winds and turbulence,” said Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus in a statement released Friday evening. “Upon arrival, the Stewart Air National Guard Fire Department and Emergency Services, along with Port Authority, County and local municipal first responders assessed the condition of approximately 200 passengers. Some were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and the rest were transported back to Newark Airport. I want to thank all the first responders for their quick, efficient, and professional action. Their collaborative efforts on this Good Friday evening helped alleviate the stress and difficulty of a challenging situation. While no passengers experienced serious injuries, we wish them all speedy recoveries and safe travels.”
Seven passengers were taken to Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall with minor injuries, some which reported possible motion sickness, according to New Windsor EMS.