Florida, United States: An Allegiant Air flight bound for Atlantic City was forced to return to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday morning after the crew received an indication related to cabin pressurization during climb, prompting medical evaluations for multiple passengers and crew members.
According to airline officials and emergency responders, Allegiant Air Flight 3912 departed Fort Lauderdale at approximately 9:20 a.m. local time for Atlantic City International Airport with 187 people onboard, including passengers and crew. The aircraft involved was identified as a Boeing 737-8200, part of the Boeing 737 MAX family.
Shortly after departure, the flight crew received an indication associated with cabin pressurization while the aircraft was climbing. Allegiant spokesperson Sonya Padgett said the pilots leveled the aircraft and elected to return to Fort Lauderdale “out of an abundance of caution” and in accordance with established procedures.
The aircraft landed safely and normally back at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, where passengers deplaned at the gate.
Following the landing, medical personnel from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue evaluated passengers and crew members as a precaution. Battalion Chief Michael Kane said paramedics treated a total of 13 people, most of whom complained of ear pain and related discomfort commonly associated with pressurization problems. Three individuals were transported to a hospital for further evaluation. Authorities said no serious injuries were immediately reported.
Some passengers complained of ringing in their ears and head discomfort after the aircraft returned to the airport. Flight tracking data cited by regional media showed the aircraft performed a series of turns before eventually landing back at Fort Lauderdale around 11:08 a.m.
Allegiant later rescheduled the flight, which subsequently departed Fort Lauderdale for Atlantic City at approximately 3:02 p.m., according to the airline’s operational data.
