An alarming aviation incident unfolded when a US Airways flight was abruptly grounded after multiple crew members collapsed from suspected toxic fume exposure, triggering emergency protocols and leaving passengers stranded.
Emergency Response at the Gate
The dramatic scene occurred as Flight 2066, bound for Phoenix, was preparing for departure. According to eyewitness accounts, cabin crew members suddenly began collapsing, with one falling onto a passenger in a disturbing moment captured on video.
Passenger Brad Dickson described the chaotic scene: "The flight attendant just collapsed on the gentleman next to me. It was terrifying - she was completely unresponsive."
Multiple Casualties and Medical Emergency
The incident resulted in at least five people requiring hospital treatment, including three flight attendants and two passengers who reported feeling ill. Emergency medical teams rushed to the aircraft gate to provide immediate assistance to the affected individuals.
American Airlines, which now operates US Airways flights, confirmed the incident involved "possible fumes" entering the cabin, though the exact source and nature of the contaminants remain under investigation.
Passenger Accounts of the Chaos
Those onboard reported confusion and concern as the emergency unfolded. "We saw crew members dropping, and then they announced we had to return to the gate," said another passenger. "Nobody knew what was happening at first - it was very frightening."
The airline quickly arranged for passengers to be transferred to alternative flights, though many expressed ongoing concerns about their exposure to whatever substances caused the crew members to collapse.
Ongoing Safety Investigation
Aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, which raises serious questions about cabin air quality and crew safety protocols. Such fume events, while rare, have been documented in previous aviation safety reports and remain a concern within the industry.
The affected crew members are receiving medical treatment, with their condition being monitored closely by airline officials and healthcare professionals.
