Passengers hospitalized after JetBlue flight dramatically drops

Aviation Accidents and Incidents - JetBlue flight 1230 experienced a sudden drop over the Gulf of Mexico, leading to passenger and crew injuries and a diversion to Tampa [1][2] - Approximately 15 to 20 individuals were transported to a local hospital following the JetBlue incident [1] - The incident occurred at 35,000 feet (approximately 10,668 meters), causing passengers and items to be thrown around the cabin [2] - Focus is on a potential wing flap issue or autopilot system malfunction as the cause of the JetBlue incident [3] - A near collision occurred at Boston Logan Airport when a Cape Air flight was cleared for takeoff on an intersecting runway as a Delta flight was landing [4] Operational Disruptions - Flight delays and ground stops, up to two hours in some cases, are occurring in the Northeast due to heavy wind and controller shortages [5] - Nearly 5,000 delays have been reported [5] - The government shutdown is exacerbating controller shortages, contributing to flight delays [5] Investigations and Safety Measures - JetBlue has taken the aircraft involved in the incident out of service for inspection and will conduct a full investigation [3] - The FAA is investigating the near collision at Boston Logan Airport [4]