A woman gave birth on a Caribbean Airlines flight out of Kingston, Jamaica, to John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens over the weekend, the airline said in a statement.
It happened Saturday, aboard flight BW005. The airline said the flight was on its final approach just before noon when the mother went into labor.
Caribbean Airlines said the woman and newborn were attended to by medical personnel when the plane landed. Both are said to be doing fine. No emergency was declared during the flight.
“The airline commends the professionalism and measured response of its crew, who managed the situation in accordance with established procedures, ensuring the safety and comfort of all onboard,” Caribbean Airlines said.
According to air traffic controller audio obtained by CBS News, a ground controller then said the child should be named “Kennedy” because the flight landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.
According to its website, the airline allows pregnant passengers to fly without medical clearance up to the end of their 32nd week of pregnancy. Between the 32nd and 35th week, medical clearance is mandatory. After week 35 of gestation, expecting passengers are not accepted for travel. It was not clear how many weeks along the passenger was.
Caribbean Airlines did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment.
NBC News contributed to this story.