Flight Bound for Israel Plunges 17,000ft Before Being Diverted, Passenger Says

A passenger aboard a flight bound for Israel has described a frightening mid-air descent, saying the aircraft dropped roughly 17,000 feet (about 5,200 metres) in less than two minutes before crew diverted the plane. The sudden loss of altitude left passengers shaken, according to accounts shared after the flight landed.

The passenger likened the experience to a rollercoaster, describing the rapid descent as disorienting and frightening for those on board. The flight was ultimately diverted rather than continuing on to its original destination, though further details on the cause of the descent and the aircraft's eventual landing point were not specified in initial reporting.

Incidents involving sudden altitude changes can stem from a range of causes, including mechanical issues, depressurisation events or evasive manoeuvres, though no official explanation had been confirmed at the time of reporting. Airlines typically divert flights as a precaution when crews detect anomalies that could affect passenger safety.

The incident adds to a string of recent aviation events involving flights to and from Israel amid heightened regional tensions, which have prompted some carriers to adjust routes and schedules in recent weeks. Authorities and the airline involved have not yet issued a full account of what caused the drop in altitude.