Alaska Airlines flight to Hawaii returns to San Diego after passengers fall ill

(FOX 5/KUSI) — An Alaska Airlines flight en route to Hawaii returned back to San Diego shortly after departure due to passengers reporting feeling ill.

Crew members on board Alaska Airlines Flight 217 from San Diego (SAN) to Lihue, Hawaii (LIH) reported feeling unwell and nauseous about an hour and 20 minutes into the approximately six hour and 40-minute flight.

Out of an abundance of caution, the pilots diverted the plane back to San Diego International Airport where EMTs were called to the gate. A handful of passengers were assessed, but none were transported to the hospital.

The aircraft was removed from service and is undergoing inspection. In an email to FOX 5/KUSI, Alaska Airlines stated: “We are in the process of reaccommodating our guests and we apologize for any inconvenience or concern this situation may have caused.”

San Diego International said the incident did not impact airport operations.

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