The sister of a man who died after being removed from a Jet2 flight in Turkey has called for more support for people with mental health issues. Andrew Westlake, 30, from Annfield Plain, died after vaulting a barrier and falling 30ft (9m) at Dalaman Airport in May 2018.
An inquest this week heard that Mr Westlake had been taken off the flight due to erratic behaviour. Coroner James Thompson said he would write to the airline and the Civil Aviation Authority about improving support for passengers with apparent mental health issues who are removed from flights.
His sister Samantha said he would still be alive if staff had supported him after his removal. 'If Andrew had been left on that Jet2 flight, or given support when he come off the Jet2 flight, we would have him home today,' she said.
She described her brother as a 'typical young man' who 'enjoyed life' and 'loved his daughter', adding: 'He was a happy soul but he did have his down days.' She urged staff to take time to speak to distressed passengers and understand their background.
A Jet2 spokesman said passenger safety was the 'number one priority' and that 'highly trained teams' follow strict procedures when disembarking a passenger. He added that 'additional assistance and support was also offered to Mr Westlake'.
