JetBlue Flight Returns to Newark After Cabin Smoke Incident

Passengers evacuated after plane turned back due to smoke in the cabin.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A JetBlue flight from Newark to Palm Beach was forced to return to Newark Liberty International Airport after smoke was reported in the cabin. All passengers were evacuated from the plane as a precaution.

Why it matters

In-flight emergencies like this can be frightening for passengers and disrupt travel plans. The incident raises questions about aircraft safety and emergency response protocols.

The details

The JetBlue Airbus A320 was about 30 minutes into its flight when the pilot reported smoke in the cabin. The plane immediately turned around and landed safely back at Newark. All 150 passengers and crew were evacuated from the aircraft using emergency slides. No injuries were reported.

  • The flight departed Newark at 6:15am on February 19, 2026.
  • The plane turned around and landed back at Newark around 7:00am the same day.

The players

JetBlue

A major U.S. airline that operates flights across the country and to the Caribbean.

Newark Liberty International Airport

A major airport serving the New York metropolitan area, located in Newark, New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“The safety of our customers and crewmembers is always our top priority. We're grateful the aircraft landed safely and all passengers were evacuated without injury.”

— JetBlue Spokesperson (JetBlue)

What’s next

The FAA and NTSB will investigate the cause of the smoke incident. JetBlue said the plane would be thoroughly inspected before returning to service.

The takeaway

In-flight emergencies like this are rare, but they highlight the importance of aircraft safety systems and well-trained flight crews to respond quickly and effectively to protect passengers.