Turbulence on a United Airlines flight traveling into Houston Monday morning sent at least five people to the hospital, airport authorities said in an email to CNN.
United Airlines flight 128 landed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport around 5:30 a.m. local time after traveling from Río de Janeiro, public information officer Augusto Bernal told CNN.
"The flight experienced severe turbulence that resulted in five passengers being transported to the hospital once it landed in Houston," Bernal said.
The airline said in a statement that the turbulence was unexpected.
"United flight 128 encountered unexpected turbulence while en route to Houston. Upon arrival, two passengers and three crew members were met by medical personnel and taken to a local hospital with minor injuries," the statement said.
"We're grateful to our crew for their efforts to ensure the safety of our employees and customers."