Spirit Airlines flight diverted due to hazmat situation after passengers sickened from 'dirty socks' odor

A Spirit Airlines flight made an emergency landing in Myrtle Beach after passengers were sickened by a "smelly socks" odor on board. (WBTW)

Several passengers on a Spirit Airlines flight from New York to Florida had to be examined by a medical crew after an emergency landing Thursday night.

The flight, heading from LaGuardia to Fort Lauderdale, was diverted to Myrtle Beach International Airport for a potential hazmat situation after an unusual odor was detected “in a section of the aircraft,” the airline confirmed.

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Several of the 220 people aboard flight 779 had to be treated for symptoms ranging from headaches, nausea and difficulty breathing, Myrtle Beach Online reports.

“Reports are we have several occupants on a plane exposed to an unknown substance,” Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue members had said over the radio, according to NBC New York. “They have deplaned and are currently on the ramp. We have isolated and are attempting to get in contact with the airport fire.”

Emergency crews responded to the scene, though no hazardous substances were found on board. (WBTW)

The emergency crews responded to the scene when the plane landed, though they did not find any hazardous substances on the aircraft. Some passengers described the smell as "dirty socks," NBC New York reports.

Passengers finally reached their destination around 4:45 a.m. Friday morning, arriving about five hours later than the original scheduled arrival time, after the airline sent a “supplemental aircraft,” according to Flight Aware.

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A spokesperson for Spirit told Fox News “the source of the odor is being investigated.”

“We apologize for the inconvenience this diversion has caused. At Spirit Airlines the safety of our Guests and Crew is paramount.”