Tragedy struck at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport when the bodies of two individuals were discovered in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue flight that had arrived from JFK Airport in New York. The grim discovery occurred during a routine post-flight maintenance check on Monday evening.
Investigation underway
Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies and medical examiners have launched an investigation into how the individuals accessed the aircraft. The victims were pronounced dead at the scene, and autopsies are planned to determine the cause of death. Their identities remain unknown, and JetBlue has pledged to cooperate fully with authorities.
JetBlue’s response
JetBlue expressed sorrow over the incident, calling it a “heartbreaking situation.” The airline emphasized its commitment to supporting investigative efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Risks of stowing away in aircraft landing gear
Stowing away in an airplane’s landing gear is perilous. Temperatures at cruising altitudes of nearly 40,000 feet plummet well below freezing, and oxygen levels are dangerously low. While some stowaways have used this method to cross international borders, these recent cases occurred entirely within U.S. airspace.
Similar incidents
This incident closely mirrors a Christmas Eve tragedy in Hawaii, where a body was discovered in the wheel well of a United Airlines jet arriving from Chicago. Authorities have not indicated any connection between the two events but are investigating potential links or inspirations.
Impact on airport operations
Despite the incident, operations at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport were not affected, according to an airport spokesperson. However, the discovery has raised serious questions about airport and airline security protocols.
The ongoing investigation will seek to understand the motivations and circumstances behind this tragic and unusual event.
