Passengers aboard an easyJet flight from Spain have described a deeply distressing ordeal, claiming they witnessed a deceased elderly woman being boarded onto the aircraft before it was due to depart.
Shocking Claims from Onboard Witnesses
The incident occurred on Friday, 20 December 2025, on easyJet flight EZY8070 from Malaga to London Gatwick. Passenger Tracy-Ann Kitching provided a detailed account, stating she saw the 89-year-old British woman being wheeled onto the plane with someone "holding her head" as they passed her seat. She and other travellers allege that family members had informed cabin crew the woman was unwell and had fallen asleep.
The plane began taxiing but came to a dramatic stop moments before take-off. Suspicious cabin crew members had checked on the passenger and discovered she showed no signs of life. According to Tracy-Ann, an actual doctor on board confirmed the woman had already died when she was placed in her seat.
Chaos and Delay Following the Discovery
Emergency services were immediately called to the aircraft, which was turned around on the runway. A spokesman for the Malaga Civil Guard confirmed they attended and that the woman was pronounced dead on the aircraft, which had been scheduled to depart just after 11am.
The discovery led to a massive 12-hour delay for all other passengers. They were offered food and drink vouchers, though some complained this compensation was insufficient for such a lengthy disruption. Tracy-Ann praised the co-pilot for his professionalism in answering questions but expressed outrage towards the airline and Special Assistance team, questioning why a deceased person was allowed to board.
Airline Response and Ongoing Fallout
In a statement, an easyJet spokesman said: "Flight EZY8070 from Malaga to London Gatwick returned to stand prior to departure due to a customer onboard requiring urgent medical assistance. The flight was met by emergency services however the customer sadly passed away. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the customer... The wellbeing of our passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority."
Passengers were told the co-pilot would compile a report using their testimonies. The event has sparked serious questions about airport and airline procedures for passengers requiring special assistance, particularly regarding pre-boarding welfare checks.
