Official: Plane evacuated in Florida, reported possible leak

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Authorities say a plane set to fly from West Palm Beach to Philadelphia with 138 people aboard had to be evacuated after a report of a possible hydraulic fuel leak.

Palm Beach International Airport spokeswoman Casandra Davis says the American Airlines plane was set to head out to the runway Thursday afternoon when crewmembers called in a possible leak.

American Airlines spokeswoman Alexis Aran Coello says the 133 passengers and five crewmembers were evacuated to the tarmac using inflatable slides. She says 23 passengers and one crewmember were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The other passengers were returned to the terminal, where the airline was helping them make new travel arrangements.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue officials went to the scene.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.