The flight, operated by ExpressJet Airlines as a codeshare under the Continental Express brand, originated in Houston and was bound for Minneapolis–St.

Because neither ExpressJet nor Continental maintained an operational presence in Rochester, Mesaba Airlines employees were the only ground handling staff on-site.

[1] Despite initially agreeing to assist the diverted flight, Mesaba's Rochester station manager subsequently refused to grant permission for it to temporarily deplane its passengers into the terminal.

[2] While the flight remained on the tarmac, Continental and ExpressJet managers attempted (but were unable) to arrange ground transportation to Minneapolis.

[3] The incident soon received widespread media coverage and resulted in federal investigations of the involved airlines for their roles in stranding the passengers.