A passenger aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight went into labor just moments before landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Saturday, April 5.
The baby was delivered onboard Caribbean Airlines Flight 005 as the aircraft made its final approach into New York shortly before noon, according to air traffic control audio obtained by CBS News.
In a lighthearted moment captured on the recording, a JFK ground controller joked, “Tell her she’s got to name it Kennedy.”
Earlier, the pilot had alerted air traffic control to the situation, saying, “Caribbean 005, we have a passenger going into labor at this time and would like to continue direct Zetal.”
The controller initially misheard the message and asked if there was a sick passenger on board. The pilot clarified, stating, “We have a pregnant passenger who’s going into labor, requesting direct Zetal.”
The aircraft was promptly cleared for a direct approach, with medical personnel arranged to meet it upon landing.
As the plane descended, the pilot confirmed, “Caribbean Airlines 005, descending through 2,200 for 2,000 direct ZETAL, with one woman in labor on board.”
After touchdown, a ground controller asked for an update on the situation. “Caribbean five, ground. Is it out yet?” The pilot responded simply, “Yes.”
This is not the first time a baby has been born on a flight bound for JFK. In 2015, a passenger on a Royal Jordanian flight gave birth midair with the assistance of a doctor and nurse onboard. The aircraft landed about two hours later, and both mother and child were taken to a nearby hospital in good condition.
