Southwest Boeing 737 MAX 8 Diverts to Honolulu Following Engine Issue

Why it matters locally: The direct diversion of a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 to Honolulu for an engine issue impacts local air traffic control, emergency services, and can cause temporary disruptions for passengers traveling to or from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

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ORLANDO, Fla. – A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft declared an emergency and diverted its flight to Honolulu. The incident occurred after an engine on the aircraft experienced a performance issue, according to a statement from Southwest Airlines. Following the event, Southwest Airlines removed its 34 Boeing MAX 8 aircraft from scheduled service. The airline's fleet includes over 750 Boeing 737s in total. The specific aircraft involved in the diversion made an emergency landing in Orlando.