Theory proposes cosmic ray as potential cause of sudden drop in flight over Florida

A recent hypothesis offers a possible explanation for the abrupt altitude drop experienced by a JetBlue flight in October. During the flight over Florida, the plane unexpectedly plunged, resulting in injuries to more than a dozen passengers.

While initial assessments pointed to solar radiation as the likely cause, researchers now suggest that a cosmic ray may have interfered with the aircraft's electronic systems, leading to the sudden descent. Aviation analyst John Nance noted, "The possibility that radiation can disrupt binary code in these programs is concerning, especially if it can affect flight controls."

Airbus has responded by releasing a software update to mitigate this type of risk. Experts have also emphasized that the aircraft systems performed correctly throughout the incident.

Author: Connor Blake