JetBlue flight returns to Newark Airport due to engine failure; full ground stop lifted

NEWARK, New Jersey — Flights at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey were temporarily suspended after engine failure forced a JetBlue flight to return to the airport and evacuate passengers via slides on Wednesday, according to officials.

JetBlue Flight 543 took off from Newark heading to West Palm Beach around 5:45 p.m., and then immediately returned to the airport due to engine failure, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in a statement.

After the plane landed and exited the runway, the crew of the Airbus A320 reported smoke in the cockpit and evacuated the passengers via slides, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

They say the plane landed safely with no injuries reported.

Flight operations had been temporarily suspended while the aircraft was removed from the taxiway.

The airport has since reopened and flight operations resumed around 7 p.m., according to the FAA and the Port Authority.

Newark Airport advised travelers to check with their airline for up-to-date information.

JetBlue issued this statement following the incident:

1. On Wednesday, February 18, JetBlue flight 543 from Newark (EWR) to West Palm Beach (PBI) returned to Newark shortly after takeoff following a reported engine issue and smoke in the cabin. The aircraft landed safely, and customers and crewmembers evacuated using the aircraft’s slides.

1. Safety is JetBlue’s top priority. We are focused on supporting our customers and crewmembers and will work closely with the appropriate federal authorities to investigate what occurred.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.