JetBlue Flight Rolls Off Runway at Boston Logan International Airport, No Injuries Reported
BOSTON, MA (WGGB/Gray News) — A JetBlue flight arriving from Chicago experienced a runway mishap at Boston Logan International Airport on Thursday, prompting a swift emergency response but resulting in no reported injuries.
According to airport officials, JetBlue Flight 312, which had departed from Chicago O’Hare International Airport, had already landed at Logan and was in the process of turning off the runway when it unexpectedly rolled off the pavement and onto a grassy area adjacent to the tarmac.
The incident occurred during the aircraft’s taxi maneuver following landing. Initial reports indicate that the plane did not skid or crash, but rather deviated slightly from the paved surface and came to a stop safely on the grass. All passengers and crew members on board are safe, and no injuries have been reported.
Emergency Response and Passenger Safety
Emergency services at Logan Airport were immediately dispatched to the scene, including fire and rescue personnel, airfield operations teams, and JetBlue staff. Passengers were promptly deplaned directly from the aircraft and transported to the terminal via buses, a standard safety procedure in incidents where jetways or traditional ground access may not be available.
The affected runway was temporarily closed to allow emergency crews and airport maintenance teams to safely assess the aircraft and inspect the runway and surrounding area for any damage or safety concerns. The aircraft remained in place on the grass for a period of time while investigators and maintenance teams conducted a preliminary examination.
Ongoing Investigation
While the precise cause of the incident is still under investigation, JetBlue and airport authorities have stated that they are fully cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), both of which have been notified.
An official statement from JetBlue read:
“JetBlue Flight 312 from Chicago safely landed at Boston Logan International Airport and experienced a minor taxiway deviation. All customers and crew are safe, and passengers were transported to the terminal by bus. We are cooperating with relevant authorities as the situation is reviewed.”
Minimal Disruption Reported
Despite the brief closure of the runway, airport operations at Boston Logan were only minimally affected. Other flights continued to arrive and depart from alternate runways, and airport authorities worked quickly to resume full operational status.
Airport officials praised the calm and orderly response by both passengers and emergency responders, noting that the situation was managed efficiently and without incident.
Community and Industry Reaction
While runway excursions, even minor ones, are rare, they are taken seriously in the aviation industry due to their potential safety implications. Aviation analysts have noted that weather conditions, surface conditions, pilot visibility, or minor mechanical issues can all contribute to such occurrences. However, it is too early to speculate on the exact circumstances in this case.
Passengers who were aboard the flight have begun to share their experiences on social media, with many expressing relief and appreciation for the calm professionalism of the flight crew and emergency personnel.
Looking Ahead
JetBlue is expected to conduct a full internal review of the incident alongside regulatory agencies. Maintenance checks on the aircraft involved will also be carried out before it is returned to service.
As of Friday morning, Boston Logan International Airport was operating normally, and no further delays associated with the incident had been reported.