5 taken to hospital from Rome-bound plane diverted to Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – Fire department officials say five people were taken to a hospital from a plane diverted to Philadelphia International Airport after crew members reported feeling ill due to an odour on board.

Airport spokeswoman Victoria Lupica said US Airways flight 720 had taken off from Charlotte, N.C. bound for Rome, but diverted to Philadelphia shortly before 10 p.m. Tuesday after crew members became nauseous.

US Airways spokesman Todd Lehmacher said the pilot decided to divert the aircraft “out of an abundance of caution” and five crew members were seen by a paramedic.

They were then taken to a hospital for observation.

Lehmacher said no illnesses were reported among any of the 176 passengers.

He said the plane will continue to Rome with a new crew early today.