A KLM Airbus 330 made an emergency landing in Yellowknife Thursday afternoon after a passenger went into labour.

Paramedics said the woman gave birth to a baby boy while the plane was still in the air.

Earl Blacklock, who is with the territory's Department of Transportation, said there were multiple doctors aboard the flight who helped deliver the baby.

A paramedic on the scene said the first-time mother, who didn't speak English, is 19 years old. She was travelling to meet her husband. He said the baby was full-term, weighing seven to eight pounds.

The paramedic said first responders found the mother between seats in business class.

The mother and newborn were taken to Stanton Territorial Hospital by ambulance.

Airport officials said the KLM flight originated in Amsterdam and was en route to Calgary.

The plane landed in Yellowknife at 1 p.m. local time. The remaining passengers stayed on board, and officials said the flight resumed at 2:45 p.m.