Passenger gives birth on Caribbean Airlines flight from Jamaica to New York

A passenger traveling from Jamaica to New York gave birth over the weekend aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight just as the aircraft was preparing to land.

In a press release, Caribbean Airlines confirmed that Flight BW005 was on its final approach from Norman Manley International Airport to John F. Kennedy International Airport shortly before noon on Saturday when the mother went into labor.

When the aircraft landed, both the mother and the newborn were attended to by medical personnel. The airline said its crew followed established procedures throughout the incident.

“The airline commends the professionalism and measured response of its crew, who managed the situation in accordance with established procedures, ensuring the safety and comfort of all onboard,” Caribbean Airlines said in the press release. “Caribbean Airlines also confirms that no emergency was declared during the flight.”

According to air traffic control audio, after the plane landed, a ground controller jokingly suggested that the child be named “Kennedy,” referencing the airport where the birth occurred.

The exchange between the pilot and air traffic control captured the moment:

Pilot: “We have a passenger, a pregnant passenger, who’s going into labor at this time. Requesting direct detail.”

Controller: “Caribbean 5, roger that. And Caribbean 5, would you like the medical personnel at your gate?”

Pilot: “Yes sir, thank you.”

Ground control: “Caribbean 5, ground?”

Pilot: “Yes sir, go ahead.”

Ground control: “Is it out yet?”

Pilot: “Yes sir.”

Ground control: “All right, tell her she’s got to name it Kennedy.”

Pilot (laughing): “Ah, Kennedy, will do.”

Both the mother and baby safely landed in New York and were treated by a medical team upon arrival. The airline again commended the professionalism and support provided by the crew.

There was no word on whether the mother decided to name the baby Kennedy.

According to a March 2020 study by the National Library of Medicine, between 1929 and 2018, 74 infants were born on 73 commercial flights, with 71 surviving delivery.

Caribbean Airlines’ policy allows pregnant passengers to travel without medical clearance up to the end of their 32nd week of pregnancy but does not accept passengers after the 35th week.

Meanwhile, reactions online ranged from congratulatory to humorous. One commenter, Winston George, wrote: “Amen. That child’s nationality is ‘International’ having born in the air or it depends parents nationality or which country owns the airspace.”