Critical Minutes: JetBlue Aircraft Declares Fuel Emergency
A JetBlue Airways Airbus A320 diverted to JFK Airport instead of Westchester due to bad weather. The crew declared a fuel emergency but landed the aircraft safely despite turbulence and wind shear.
A JetBlue Airways Airbus A320 travelling from Orlando to Westchester diverted to New York’s JFK Airport for an emergency landing due to severe weather conditions. As the fuel level reached a critical threshold, the crew declared a “minimum fuel” status and, despite challenging weather, landed the aircraft safely.
The Airbus A320, registration N516JB, operated by US-based JetBlue Airways (B6), was performing flight B694 / JBU94 from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Westchester County Airport (HPN).
However, due to poor weather and low visibility at the destination airport, the flight was held in a holding pattern for approximately one hour.
Captain Reports “Minimum Fuel” Status
After about 55 minutes of holding, the crew was unable to attempt a landing at Westchester and decided to divert to New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
While in contact with New York approach control (ATC), the crew reported that the fuel level had reached a critical point.
In accordance with international aviation protocols, the pilot declared a “minimum fuel” status. Shortly thereafter, a “fuel emergency” was announced, and the aircraft was granted priority landing clearance.
Controlled Landing Despite Strong Winds and Turbulence
During its approach, the JetBlue A320 encountered severe turbulence and wind shear.
Despite these challenges, the crew maintained full control of the aircraft and completed the landing successfully.
The aircraft safely touched down on JFK’s Runway 13L, where emergency response teams were on standby.
After landing, the aircraft taxied to the apron area, where emergency procedures were followed for a potential technical inspection. All passengers and crew members were reported to be in good health.
ATC Coordination and Emergency Management Praised
Throughout the incident, New York ATC maintained continuous communication with the JetBlue crew and effectively managed the fuel emergency procedures.
According to radio recordings, the pilots regularly reported the aircraft’s status, which was carrying 146 passengers.
It was reported that fuel had dropped to 5,300 pounds, prompting air traffic controllers to immediately grant priority approach and landing clearance.
Experts stated that the calm and professional crisis management demonstrated by the JetBlue team ensured that the situation was resolved without any safety risks.
Wind Shear Advisory Still in Effect
According to ATC data, during the landing, a 15-knot wind speed variation occurred at an altitude of 800 feet, with moderate surface turbulence reported.
Despite these challenging weather conditions, the aircraft executed a smooth landing.
In a statement following the incident, JetBlue officials said:
“Thanks to our crew’s commitment to safety and professional performance, the flight was completed without issue. All our passengers are safe and well.”
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