Terrifying Mid-Air Ordeal: Spirit Airlines Passengers Brace for Water Landing During Pressurization Crisis?

On Sunday, May 26, 2024, Spirit Airlines flight NK270 from Montego Bay to Fort Lauderdale reportedly prepared for a ditching. The month-old Airbus A321neo took off from Jamaica at 1:24 p.m. but had a pressurization issue that was identified during the climb out. They halted their ascent at 5,000 feet and turned back towards the airport. Passengers report being told of a loss of cabin pressure, and that they needed to prepare for a water landing. Cabin crew instructed them on how to brace for impact. Footage from inside the cabin shows passengers with life vests in hand.

Spirit Airlines Flight NK270 Returns Safely After Suspected Mechanical Issue

Despite preparations for a potential water landing, the aircraft landed safely back at Montego Bay at 1:46 p.m., where it was met by emergency services. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew. The airport described the incident as involving “challenges” faced by the flight. Spirit Airlines has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the pressurization issue. The flight was canceled, and Spirit Airlines arranged for a replacement aircraft, another A321-200 with registration N686NK, to complete the trip – resulting in a delay of slightly over 7 hours.

Spirit Airlines Confirms No Pressurization Issue, Apologizes to Passengers for Inconvenience

As suspicions arose about the reported pressurization issue, Spirit Airlines confirmed that there was no such problem. A spokesperson for the airline stated that the flight returned to Montego Bay out of an abundance of caution following a suspected mechanical issue. The plane landed safely at the airport, and passengers deplaned as per normal procedures. The aircraft will undergo thorough evaluation by the maintenance team. Spirit Airlines apologized to passengers for any inconvenience caused and arranged for a new aircraft to complete the flight to Fort Lauderdale.

In a statement, the airline reiterated that safety is their top priority.