Two bodies were discovered Monday evening in the landing gear of a JetBlue Airways plane during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the airline confirmed on Tuesday.
Investigation Underway
The Airbus A320 left New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, reached a cruising altitude of 36,000 feet, and arrived in Fort Lauderdale. After paramedics pronounced both individuals deceased, homicide and crime scene units were called to the scene.
Security Concerns
Security expert Jeff Price explained that stowaways typically access planes through employee access doors or emergency exits. The investigation involves coordination between the TSA, FAA, airline, and other stakeholders.
Previous Incidents
This incident follows a similar discovery on a United Airlines plane in Maui. Stowaways often face lethal conditions in wheel wells, but some have miraculously survived.
System Flaws
Authorities are working to determine how the stowaways accessed the plane and the airport ramp. Price emphasized the need for a thorough investigation before assigning blame.
JetBlue, Stowaway, Plane, Security, Investigation
