Severe turbulence on a flight from America to the UK has left 16 people injured.

The United Airlines flight was travelling from Houston, U.S., to Heathrow when it experienced "unexpected turbulence".

It diverted to Shannon Airport in Ireland at about 6:00 a.m. this morning and carried out an emergency landing.

A total of fourteen passengers and two crew members were taken to hospital.

Passenger Leslie Chi, from Nottingham, posted on Facebook saying: "Really felt I might die but fine now, just so tired."

A spokesman for the airline said: "United Airlines is providing care and support to customers and crew of flight UA880 which experienced severe and unexpected turbulence during a flight from Houston to London Heathrow today."

"The aircraft diverted to Shannon Airport in Ireland wher it was met by medical personnel."

The Boeing 767-300 plane had 207 passengers and 13 crew members on board.

Those left injured were taken to a hospital in Limerick.

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