NEW YORK- JetBlue Airways’ (B6) incident involving a plane that dropped a massive block of ice onto a couple’s home.
A Los Angeles couple narrowly escaped devastating injuries when a block of ice fell from a JetBlue aircraft, crashing through their bedroom ceiling as they slept. The incident, which occurred in January 2024, has led the couple to file a lawsuit against the airline, citing negligence and trespass.
Photo: Clément AlloingJetBlue Drops Ice Block
The couple, Michael Reese and Leah Ferrarini, purchased their dream home in Inglewood, Los Angeles, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in 2020. Despite investing significant time and resources into renovations, their sense of safety was shattered after the terrifying event.
The ice block, originating from a JetBlue (B6) Airbus A321, tore through their bedroom ceiling and landed mere inches from where they slept.
The couple now struggles with severe anxiety, reporting fear every time a plane flies overhead—a common occurrence given their proximity to LAX.
Investigations revealed that the aircraft had ongoing potable water system issues, leading to ice accumulation on its underbelly.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) uncovered a history of similar incidents with the same plane, including a July 2023 case in Shirley, Massachusetts. Despite these warning signs, JetBlue allegedly failed to investigate or address the underlying problem.
The FAA’s investigation revealed that the seven-year-old Airbus A321 had a history of potable water issues that could result in ice accumulation.
This recurring problem was reportedly overlooked by JetBlue, despite prior incidents that should have prompted immediate corrective measures.
The ice formation stemmed from a malfunctioning potable water valve and drain. While JetBlue eventually ordered a detailed investigation after the January 2024 event, the delay has been central to the couple’s legal argument.
Photo: By Anna Zvereva from Tallinn, Estonia – JetBlue Airways, N946JL, Airbus A321-231, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=41996034Legal Case
Reese and Ferrarini have filed a lawsuit in California’s Superior Court, accusing JetBlue of negligence. They argue that the airline neglected its duty to ensure the aircraft’s safety, despite being aware of the defect months prior to the January incident.
According to the lawsuit, JetBlue’s repair vendor identified the issue with the potable water valve and drain only after the January event.
The lawsuit highlights JetBlue’s failure to act responsibly, stating, “JetBlue had been on notice for months prior to January 1, 2024, yet failed to conduct an investigation as to the problems with the potable water system valve and drain.” The plaintiffs contend that prompt action could have prevented the catastrophic ice discharge.
In addition to negligence, the couple is pursuing a trespass claim, asserting that the airline had no right to invade their property in such a manner. The incident caused significant property damage and lasting emotional trauma, leaving the couple fearful in their own home.
Photo:N585JB JetBlue Airways 2004 Airbus A320-232 C/N 2159 “I Go… | FlickrBottom Line
Michael Reese and Leah Ferrarini’s harrowing experience is a stark reminder of airlines’ responsibilities in maintaining their fleets.
As their lawsuit progresses, it sheds light on the critical need for thorough investigations and timely resolutions of mechanical issues to prevent such incidents in the future.
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