'Heartbreaking moment': Saudia plane diverted to Cairo after crew member dies onboard

Khaleej Times

a day ago

A tragedy unfolded in the skies on Thursday aboard a Saudia flight departing from Jeddah, when a crew member suffered a sudden medical emergency that resulted in his death.
Saudia flight SV119, en route to London, was diverted to Cairo following the onboard medical emergency. Sadly, the cabin manager, Mohsen bin Saeed Alzahrani, was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The Saudi carrier took to X to mourn its staff member saying: "Despite the immediate and valiant efforts of fellow crew members and medically licensed individuals onboard, he was pronounced deceased upon the aircraft's arrival at Cairo International Airport."
Describing the event as "a heartbreaking moment in which we lost one of our most dedicated team members", it went on to say that Alzahrani was "a shining example of commitment and discipline, admired by his peers for his integrity, professionalism, and high moral character".
Saudia extended its condolences to his family and fellow team members, stressing that it is committed to providing all the necessary support to his family and everyone affected by his loss.
Commending on the flight crew's "remarkable courage and professionalism in managing the situation and ensuring the continuation of the journey under exceptional circumstances", the airline also thanked the travellers for their understanding and cooperation during this ordeal.
Sudden deaths mid-flight often result in flight diversions and emergency landings.
In October 2024, a Turkish Airlines pilot died after collapsing mid-flight, forcing the Turkish national carrier to make an emergency landing in New York.
In another incident, a flydubai flight from Dubai to Dhaka was diverted to Karachi in February 2023, after a passenger passed away during the journey.