Severe Turbulence Forces International Delta Flight to Divert to MSP; 25 Injured
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MSP), MINNESOTA — A Delta Air Lines flight traveling from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam was forced to make an emergency diversion to Minneapolis-St. Paul Paul International Airport (MSP) on Wednesday evening, July 30, 2025, after encountering severe in-flight turbulence that resulted in multiple injuries.
Delta Flight 56, operated on an Airbus A330-900, landed safely at MSP at approximately 7:45 p.m. CDT. According to the Metropolitan Airports Commission's Strategic Communications Manager, Jeff Lea, emergency crews from the MSP Fire Department and paramedics met the aircraft at the gate to provide immediate medical assistance.
A Delta spokesperson confirmed that 25 individuals on board—including passengers and potentially crew members—were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment following the incident. The flight had 275 passengers and 13 crew members on board. The airline stated that the turbulence occurred while the aircraft was en route over the U.S., prompting the flight crew to initiate a diversion to ensure the safety and well-being of all on board.
“Medical personnel met the flight upon arrival to evaluate customers and crew,” the spokesperson said. “We are grateful for the support of all emergency responders involved.” Delta emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority. “Safety is our No. 1 value at Delta,” the spokesperson added. “Our Delta Care Team is working directly with customers to support their immediate needs.”
The exact nature and severity of the injuries have not been publicly detailed. Some injured passengers were treated at the airport, while others required further medical care off-site.
Unofficial sources say the plane might have dropped around 900 feet after encountering severe turbulence. These reports are tied to an urgent PIREP report made by an A330-900 plane around 6:42 PM CDT between Port of Rocks and Rawlins, Wyoming. Radar on the Aviation Weather Center site shows a strong storm quickly developing in the area of the PIREP report. You can see the PIREP and a screenshot of a storm in the area of the PIREP below. The official cause of the severe turbulence is still under investigation.
Delta is coordinating with the affected travelers to ensure they are accommodated and supported following the unexpected disruption. It is currently unclear when or how the remaining passengers will continue their journey to Amsterdam.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have not yet issued statements. Still, such incidents involving injuries due to turbulence are typically subject to internal airline review and potential federal investigation.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Submitted photo of the Delta flight at MSP Airport.
Written By: Will Wight and Markie Kelly
