JetBlue flight returns to Newark after engine failure, smoke prompts evacuation

A JetBlue flight bound for West Palm Beach returned to Newark Liberty International Airport shortly after takeoff Wednesday after reporting engine failure and smoke in the cockpit, prompting a ground stop and an emergency evacuation, officials said.

The Port Authority said JetBlue flight 543 took off from Newark Liberty International Airport at 5:43 p.m. on Wednesday before immediately returning to the airport due to engine failure.

"The plane landed safely with no injuries to report at this time," the Port Authority said.