A JetBlue flight was struck by lightning shortly after takeoff from Westchester County Airport on Tuesday, prompting a precautionary diversion to John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, according to Federal Aviation Administration records.
The flight was en route to Orlando when it was struck as it was gaining altitude.
Pilot reports radar damage
In a radio transmission, the pilot reported that the lightning strike damaged the aircraft’s weather radar system.
Out of caution, the flight crew diverted to JFK Airport rather than continue to its destination.
Safe landing, no injuries reported
The plane landed safely at JFK, and no injuries were reported, officials said.
Airport investigating incident
Westchester County Airport officials said the incident is under investigation.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: JetBlue flight struck by lightning after takeoff from Westchester County Airport
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
