Passenger sues Singapore Airlines after suffering severe allergic reaction mid-flight

New Straits Times

20-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Singapore Airlines (SIA) is being sued over claims that it served a shellfish-containing meal to a passenger who had allegedly informed the cabin crew of her allergy, resulting in a severe allergic reaction mid-flight.
The lawsuit was filed on Tuesday in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York by 41-year-old paediatrician Dr Doreen Benary, the Straits Times reported.
The suit stated that the incident occurred in October last year during a flight from Frankfurt, Germany, to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
Benary, who was travelling in Business Class, had allegedly informed a crew member of her shellfish allergy but was served a meal containing shrimp, according to court documents.
The New York-based paediatrician claimed she detected the shrimp upon eating the meal and began to feel unwell.
It was also stated that she allegedly confronted a crew member, who admitted to the mistake and apologised.
She reportedly suffered a severe allergic reaction and fell violently ill, prompting the aircraft to divert to Paris, France, where she received emergency treatment at two separate medical facilities.
The suit said Benary endured significant pain, distress, and mental anguish, and continues to suffer lasting after-effects that have deprived her of the enjoyment of life, pursuits, and interests.
As a result, Benary is seeking "full, fair and reasonable damages" from SIA, with the amount to be determined at trial, along with interest and legal costs.
An SIA spokesman told The Straits Times that the airline is unable to comment on matters prior to the court proceeding.
Meanwhile, Benary's lawyer was quoted by The Independent as saying the matter could not be discussed without her consent.