MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue says no hazardous substances were found on board a Spirit Airlines flight that was diverted to Myrtle Beach International Airport late Thursday night.
A Spirit Airlines representative told News13 the flight was diverted after an odor developed in a section of the plane. Spirit Airlines Flight 779, carrying 220 passengers, was originally scheduled to travel from New York LaGuardia to Ft. Lauderdale.
Lt. Jonathan Evans, spokesman for Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue, says firefighters responded to the airport for the potential hazmat situation just after 10 p.m.
Evans says approximately 7 to 10 passengers complained of medical issues and would be taken to an area hospital. At this time, the extent of those medical issues is unknown.
After passengers de-boarded the plane, members of Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue’s Hazmat Team searched it for any hazardous substances. The effort, according to officials, had negative results after “extensive monitoring.”
Spirit Airlines told News13 a new aircraft has been sent to Myrtle Beach to help get passengers to their final destinations.
“We apologize for the inconvenience this diversion has caused,” Spirit Airlines Media Relations Manager Derek Dombrowski said. “At Spirit Airlines, the safety of our guests and crew is paramount.”
Horry County Fire Rescue and Airport Fire assisted with the call.
Stay with News13 for additional updates on this story.
