JetBlue A320 Emergency Evacuation at Newark After Engine Failure and Cockpit Smoke
February 19, 2026
The FAA said it would continue investigating the cockpit smoke incident and assess the surrounding circumstances.
Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 is cited for reporting the event and its timing.
This is a developing story, with additional updates expected from News 12.
A JetBlue Airbus A320 bound for West Palm Beach returned to Newark Liberty International Airport after an engine failure on takeoff, prompting an emergency evacuation of passengers and crew via slides with no injuries reported.
There were 122 passengers aboard, and one passenger experienced chest pains and was hospitalized.
This event followed a separate security-sweep incident at Newark the day prior involving a United flight after a bullet was found onboard.
Video evidence circulated showing passengers deplaning on the tarmac after the evacuation.
The provided text does not include the flight number, destination, aircraft type beyond A320, or the exact duration of the temporary suspension.
Flight operations at Newark were temporarily suspended to remove the aircraft from the taxiway as authorities gather information for the ongoing investigation.
Note: Some text in the source consists of risk disclosures and site terms not related to the incident report.
FAA representatives did not respond to Business Insider for comment.
WPBF 25 News covered the incident, including a JetBlue statement and a recap of subsequent airport operations.
Summary based on 22 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Feb 19, 2026
JetBlue engine failure on takeoff at Newark airport disrupts air traffic
Business Insider • Feb 19, 2026
A JetBlue plane made an emergency landing at Newark after smoke was reported in the cabin
USA TODAY • Feb 19, 2026
Smoke on JetBlue flight triggers emergency landing, FAA probe