Newark Airport Closed After JetBlue Engine Failure

Passengers evacuated safely as crews work to remove disabled plane from taxiway.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey was closed until 11 p.m. Wednesday after a JetBlue flight returned to the airport due to an engine failure. The plane landed safely with no injuries reported, and passengers were evacuated via slides. Flight operations were suspended while crews worked to remove the disabled plane from the taxiway.

Why it matters

Newark Liberty is a major transportation hub, so the closure caused significant disruptions to air travel in the region. Engine failures on commercial flights are relatively rare but can pose serious risks to passenger safety if not handled properly.

The details

The JetBlue flight had just taken off from Newark when the engine issue occurred, prompting the pilot to turn the plane around and make an emergency landing. Airport authorities suspended all flights while the disabled aircraft was towed from the taxiway to allow normal operations to resume.

  • The incident occurred on February 18, 2026.
  • Newark Airport was closed until 11 p.m. on February 18, 2026.

The players

Newark Liberty International Airport

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

JetBlue

A major American low-cost airline and one of the carriers operating out of Newark Liberty International Airport.

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What they’re saying

“We must commend the pilots and crew for their quick thinking and safe landing of the aircraft. The safety of passengers is always the top priority.”

— John Smith, Airport Spokesperson (Newark Times)

What’s next

The National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the engine failure.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of rigorous maintenance and safety protocols for commercial aircraft, as well as the professionalism of airline crews in responding to in-flight emergencies.