Tragic Incident Aboard Qatar Airways Flight QR908. In a somber turn of events, a 60-year-old woman passed away during her journey on a Qatar Airways flight bound for Sydney. The airline, Qatar Airways, has confirmed this unfortunate incident, as reported by various sources.
Mid-Journey Tragedy
The distressing incident unfolded on Qatar Airways flight QR908, en route from Doha to Sydney, when the woman was discovered in an unresponsive state. This occurred approximately halfway through the extensive 14-hour flight to Australia.
Efforts to Save a Life
The airline’s crew members made valiant efforts to provide emergency medical care, including CPR and the use of a defibrillator, in their attempt to resuscitate the passenger. Despite their best efforts, tragically, the woman could not be revived.
Airlines Condolences
Expressing deep sorrow, a spokesperson for Qatar Airways conveyed their condolences, stating, “Regrettably, the lady could not be revived. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”
In-Flight Medical Procedures
As per aviation regulations, flight attendants are mandated to offer emergency medical assistance when passengers fall ill during a flight. Due to the limited space within an aircraft, medical procedures such as CPR are often performed in the aisle or galley, in full view of fellow passengers.
Handling of Deceased Passengers
In cases where medical interventions prove unsuccessful, standard protocols involve relocating the deceased passenger to an unoccupied row or a designated area in the business class section, where they are respectfully covered.
Official Declaration upon Landing
It is important to note that, as per legal procedures, passengers can only be officially declared deceased by local authorities upon arrival at the destination, even if an “apparent death in-flight” occurs. In this instance, the woman’s official declaration of death took place upon the aircraft’s landing in Sydney on a Friday afternoon.
A Delicate Juncture
This unfortunate incident occurs at a sensitive time, as Australian authorities are engaged in discussions with Qatari officials regarding a contentious matter related to the approval of additional Qatar Airways flights into Australia. The decision by Australian authorities has had significant repercussions within the aviation industry, prompting calls for transparency and clarification regarding the rationale behind this decision.