Unknown Odor Hospitalizes Eight Crew Charlotte Airport

On June 27, an unknown odor at Charlotte Douglas International Airport led to the hospitalization of seven individuals, including six American Airlines crew members and one gate agent, due to inhalation symptoms. The odor was detected on American Airlines flight 2055 before passengers boarded the Airbus A321 to Los Angeles, prompting medical attention on-site and subsequent hospital evaluations; all affected were later released. The flight was canceled, the aircraft was taken out of service for inspection, and the source of the odor remains unidentified, though a slight jet fuel smell was noted without other hazardous readings. The incident coincided with broader operational challenges at the airport, including technology issues affecting American Airlines' systems and a Federal Aviation Administration ground stop due to severe weather, resulting in numerous delays and cancellations. Meanwhile, Air India faced separate issues with a burning smell on a Mumbai-to-Chennai flight that caused a precautionary return to Mumbai, and a disruptive passenger incident on another flight, highlighting ongoing airline safety and operational concerns. Both airlines emphasized safety protocols and cooperation with authorities during these events.