Five people injured in turbulence as planes diverted from Denver
· UPIAug. 4 (UPI) -- Authorities diverted more than 20 airplanes from Denver International Airport to Colorado Springs because of "significant" turbulence this week.
CBS News reported that 29 flights -- 25 domestic and four international - were diverted, while CNN put the overall number at 22. The rough flying weather came late Monday as a cold front moved through the area, causing windy conditions and changes in wind direction.
The Colorado Spring Fire Department attended to five passengers, all from different flights, after they reported medical issues. One person was transported to a local hospital in stable condition.
"We basically staged our medical teams at the airport, one on the tarmac and another at the gate as planes continued to divert, so we did not have to drive back and forward as planes landed," Ashley Franco, Colorado Springs Fire Department spokesperson, told CNN.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the pilot in command ultimately decides where to land each airplane.
"Weather-related diversions can occur due to factors including thunderstorms, very strong winds and low visibility," it said in a statement.
Air turbulence is common around Denver because of the nearby Rocky Mountains.