AUSTIN, Texas – A United Express flight diverted to Austin after hitting “severe turbulence” and encountering pressurization issues.
At least one passenger was injured during the incident, according to air traffic control recordings obtained by KPRC 2.
SkyWest Airlines flight 5971, a contractor operating under the United Airlines brand, was flying from Aspen, Colorado to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) on Thursday afternoon.
SkyWest Airlines operates United Express flights as a contractor, providing regional air service that connects smaller cities to larger hubs, including Houston, Denver and Chicago.
According to flight data reviewed by KPRC 2, the aircraft quickly descended roughly 4,000 feet in 40 seconds while flying over the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
On top of the turbulence, the plane also encountered a pressurization issue, according to the FAA.
“SkyWest Airlines Flight 5971 landed safely at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport around 8 p.m. local time on Thursday, Aug. 28, after the crew reported encountering severe turbulence and a pressurization issue. The Embraer E175 was flying from Aspen, Colorado, to Houston,” the FAA wrote in a statement.
Air Traffic Control: “The medical people we’re calling would like to know if the injuries were from the turbulence and if they are On oxygen?”
SkyWest Pilot: “The injuries were from the turbulence. We are checking on the oxygen.”
Air Traffic Control: “Appreciate it, just let me know when you can.”
SkyWest Pilot: “The passenger is not on oxygen, we will need a stretcher, and I know that there is bleeding as well.”
Air Traffic Control: “Real quick question, did you get any injuries to crew members?”
SkyWest Pilot: “Uh…possibly.”
SkyWest Airlines says two passengers were taken to the hospital as a precaution.
“SkyWest flight 5971, operating as United Express from Aspen (ASE) to Houston (IAH), was diverted to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) after experiencing turbulence,” a SkyWest Airlines spokesperson wrote to KPRC 2. “The flight landed safely and was met by medical personnel upon arrival. Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of all onboard and we are working with our partner United to assist customers.”
There were 39 passengers and four crew members aboard the plane.
The FAA is investigating the incident.
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