Multiple passengers on a Delta Airlines flight from Salt Lake City to Portland experienced ruptured eardrums, bloody noses, and severe ear pain after the plane encountered cabin pressurization issues at 10,000 feet.
The incident occurred on Flight 1203, which was forced to return to Salt Lake City shortly after takeoff on Sunday.
One passenger, Jaci Purser, described the pain as “stabbing,” and noted that her ear began bleeding due to the pressure change. Another passenger, Caryn Allen, recounted seeing several people in distress, including a man with a bloody nose. Passengers reported ear pain and discomfort almost immediately after takeoff.
The Boeing 737-900, carrying 140 passengers, could not pressurize above 10,000 feet, though oxygen masks did not deploy. The aircraft returned safely to Salt Lake International Airport, where 10 individuals required medical evaluation. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
“The flight crew followed procedures to return to SLC, where our teams on the ground supported our customers with their immediate needs,” stated Delta spokesperson in an apology for the incident.
Passengers were accommodated on another flight, and the airline confirmed the aircraft’s pressurization issue was fixed before the plane was returned to service the next day.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the matter.
CNN, New York Post, and FOX Business contributed to this report.