Overseas investigators are en route to Jamaica following a runway incident at Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport involving an American Airlines aircraft last night. The aircraft, identified as Flight AA850—a Boeing 737-823—reportedly veered off the runway during its landing sequence around 9:30 p.m.
The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA), the nation’s aviation regulator, confirmed that the flight was carrying 167 passengers and six crew members. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from the incident.
Describing the incident, one passenger recounted a “scary” and “rough” experience. The JCAA has initiated a preliminary investigation, dispatching inspectors to the scene at the NMIA. They are collaborating with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and American Airlines to probe the cause of the mishap.
“An American Airlines Air Safety Investigator, as well as the airline’s maintenance go-team, are currently en route from the United States, and are expected to arrive at the NMIA today,” stated the JCAA. The authority is ensuring all mandatory reports regarding the incident are submitted in cooperation with the airline and airport management.
The mishap caused some damage to the aircraft, notably to the engine, and also affected airport infrastructure, including some runway edge lights. Despite this, the aircraft managed to taxi to the gate where all passengers and crew disembarked safely.
PAC Kingston Airport Limited, the entity managing the NMIA, stated that the airport operations continue normally with no flights being diverted due to the incident.
On the social media platform X, Jamaican businessman Richard Pandohie, who was aboard the flight, shared his experience: “rough, even scary,” yet he expressed his gratitude for the safe landing and handling of the situation.