The Pittsburgh Penguins were forced to return to Salt Lake City International Airport shortly after takeoff as forward Ben Kindel suffered a medical emergency onboard the plane

A sports star was rushed to hospital after his team's plane was forced to land in a medical emergency. NHL side Pittsburgh Penguins have confirmed they were compelled to turn back to Salt Lake City International Airport moments after take-off.

The Penguins suffered a 5-4 defeat to the Utah Mammoth on Monday evening, and were scheduled to fly back to Pittsburgh ahead of hosting the Florida Panthers on Thursday. Yet shortly after departing, the aircraft returned to its point of departure as Ben Kindel became unwell.

The alarming incident saw the NHL star receive care from the club's medical personnel during the flight, before he was taken to the University of Utah hospital upon landing.

Kindel has since been described as stable, and the club released a statement. "The Pittsburgh Penguins team plane returned to the Salt Lake City International Airport today shortly after takeoff due to a medical episode involving forward Ben Kindel," the Penguins wrote.

"Team physician, Dr. Dharmesh Vyas of UPMC, as well as the team's medical staff were on board and immediately attended to Ben. An ambulance was waiting upon arrival, and he was taken to the University of Utah Hospital for further evaluation.

"Ben is conscious, alert and in stable condition. The health and safety of our players, as well as the privacy for their families, are our top priority. The team will provide further updates when appropriate."

The Mammoth then demonstrated their sportsmanship by responding to the statement and offering their support to the Penguins and Kindel. "Sending our thoughts to the Penguins organization and well wishes to Ben for a speedy recovery."

Kindel is currently in his second season with the Penguins having been picked 11th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. The youngster has notched two goals and two assists in nine games this season, and featured for 18 minutes in Tuesday's 5-4 defeat.

The incident prompted the Penguins to call off their scheduled practice and workout on Wednesday, with skating made optional for the squad. However, as a result of the cancelled session, media access was also significantly limited.