The Minnesota Vikings experienced an unexpected travel scare on Saturday night after their team plane was forced to return to Minneapolis shortly after take-off.
The Vikings had departed from Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport en route to New Jersey ahead of Sunday’s game against the New York Giants, but mechanical issues prevented the aircraft from continuing the journey.
The situation unfolded roughly an hour into the flight, prompting the crew to turn back as a precaution.
Mechanical issue forces early return
NFL insider Tom Pelissero confirmed the incident on X, sharing details from the team shortly after the plane landed safely.
“Shortly after departing, the team plane experienced mechanical issues that required a return to Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport,” the Vikings said in a statement.
“The team will board a second plane momentarily and is now expected to arrive at Newark International Airport later tonight.”
The team was travelling to Newark Liberty International Airport ahead of their scheduled 1 p.m. ET kickoff in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Vikings broadcaster Ben Leber documented the experience through Instagram Stories, offering a glimpse into how quickly plans changed.
“Off to NYC!!” Leber wrote, sharing a photo from his seat while watching college football on the flight.
Unfortunately, the trip didn’t last long.
“Can’t get to NY when the landing gear hatch doesn’t close,” Leber wrote, alongside an image showing the plane’s altered flight path.
Flight tracking data showed the aircraft changing course just south of Madison, Wisconsin, before returning to Minneapolis.
Safe landing and delayed arrival
Despite the disruption, there were no reports of injuries or further complications. The team landed safely and regrouped before boarding a replacement aircraft later that evening.
Leber later posted another update, sharing a nighttime photo of city lights with a simple caption.
“Finally made it.”
Vikings cornerback Isaiah Rodgers also reassured fans after the incident.
“We’re ok 👏👏,” Rodgers wrote in a comment beneath a fan page post discussing the delay.
Vikings end of season
While the Vikings sit outside the playoff picture with a 6–8 record, the timing of the travel issue arrived during a positive stretch on the field.
The team entered the weekend riding back-to-back wins over the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys, building late-season momentum despite earlier struggles.
Sunday’s matchup against the Giants marks Minnesota’s final road game of the season.
They will close out the year with home games at U.S. Bank Stadium against the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.
