First flights of baby formula expected "within days," official says

The first flights of baby formula into the United States are expected "within days" as federal officials are putting the final touches on plans to fly in supply from Europe, according to a senior White House official.

A flight from Zurich, Switzerland, to Plainfield, Indiana is set to include 1.5 million 8-ounce bottles of three types of baby formula — Alfamino Infant, Alfamino Junior and Gerber Good Start HA, the White House said. The brands are all hypoallergenic formulas.

The White House said these brands have been prioritized because they " serve a critical medical purpose and are in short supply" due to the Abbott Sturgis plant closure. The shipments will include approximately 246 pallets, the White House said.