A routine EasyJet flight from the sunny shores of Lanzarote to Liverpool's John Lennon Airport turned into a scene of tragedy this week. Holidaymakers aboard flight EZY3364 were left in shock after a fellow passenger suffered a fatal medical emergency mid-air.
The Airbus A320, carrying 167 passengers and six crew members, was approximately 90 minutes into its journey when the incident occurred. Cabin crew, trained for such emergencies, immediately sprang into action, desperately attempting to resuscitate the stricken individual.
Desperate Efforts at 30,000 Feet
Despite the valiant efforts of the flight crew and the assistance of two doctors who were fortuitously travelling as passengers on the flight, the medical emergency proved too severe. For over forty minutes, they performed CPR in a desperate attempt to save the passenger's life.
An eyewitness on board described the harrowing scene. "The cabin crew were absolutely amazing," they recounted. "They did everything they could. They were doing CPR on the gentleman for a good 40 minutes or so. It was obviously very traumatic for everyone involved."
Diverted for a Tragic Cause
Following the protocols for such grave situations, the pilots made the decision to divert the aircraft from its original course. The plane was rerouted to Nantes Atlantique Airport in western France to allow for the most rapid access to emergency medical services on the ground.
Upon landing, the aircraft was met by a full emergency response team. Tragically, their efforts were in vain, and the passenger was pronounced dead. The flight subsequently continued its sombre journey to Liverpool, arriving several hours behind schedule.
Airline's Response and Support
EasyJet confirmed the tragic incident in an official statement. "We can confirm that a passenger became unwell onboard flight EZY3364 from Lanzarote to Liverpool on 19 October," a spokesperson said.
"The crew, assisted by two doctors travelling onboard, provided medical support to the passenger and the captain opted to divert to Nantes where the aircraft was met by paramedics. Very sadly, the passenger passed away."
The airline emphasised that the safety and wellbeing of its customers and crew remain its highest priority. EasyJet has provided support for its crew and is assisting the relevant authorities with their procedures following this deeply saddening event.
