Cathay Pacific’s Wednesday reaction revealed the emergency assistance methods implemented by cabin personnel for the first ten affected customers.
HONG KONG- aboard January 9, fifteen passengers aboard Cathay Pacific flight CX640 from Kathmandu (KTM) to Hong Kong (HKG) were affected by a second round of food poisoning.
Five passengers, four males and one female, required immediate medical attention at North Lantau Hospital after landing at 5 a.m.
Cathay Pacific Food Poisoning
The epidemic follows a Wednesday event in which ten passengers on the same route developed food poisoning symptoms. The early cases, which included six males and four females aged 21 to 38, exhibited symptoms within 10 to 30 minutes after having in-flight meals.
The examination by the Centre for Health Protection (CPH) revealed that nine of the sick passengers on Wednesday eaten identical takeaway meals prior to boarding. These lunches, which included chicken, cucumber, and tomato sandwiches, were eaten about two hours before the trip.
Epidemiological research suggests that these pre-flight sandwiches were the most likely source of the original outbreak. The CHP is now tasked with assessing if Thursday’s incidents are related or result from a distinct contamination source.
Health officials have yet to establish whether the fifteen sick passengers on Thursday ate the identical sandwiches associated with Wednesday’s epidemic. The Center for Health Protection is aggressively investigating both instances, collecting in-flight meal samples for laboratory investigation.
Cathay Pacific’s Wednesday reaction revealed the emergency assistance methods implemented by cabin personnel for the first ten affected customers. Prior to landing, the airline followed standard medical procedures and coordinated with Hong Kong authorities and medical professionals.
The airline pledged to implement rigorous airplane sanitation standards and initiated an internal investigation into the food poisoning cases.
Company representatives thanked medical personnel’s prompt response and expressed gratitude for unaffected passengers’ patience during the disturbance.
Similar Incidents
United Airlines (UA) experienced a food poisoning epidemic at Denver International Airport (DEN), impacting approximately 200 flight attendants and other staff who ate holiday meals.
The Association of Flight Attendants (CWA) found a direct correlation between lunch service and disease symptoms. United Airlines used badge scanning during lunch distribution to keep a full record of affected staff.
The aviation industry faced numerous food safety concerns in late 2024. Delta Air Lines (DL) discontinued hot meal service on over 200 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport flights in October due to safety issues at its local catering plant. The airline promptly closed the impacted cooking unit.
A separate incident in November 2024 affected international flights landing at Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT) from Guam (GUM). Japan Airlines (JL) Flight JL942 reported 16 unwell passengers, while United Airlines Flight UA873 had 18 cases.
The outbreak predominantly affected traveling high school students, with fourteen passengers being hospitalized upon arrival.
Japan Airlines ruled out in-flight meals as the cause, adding that some customers experienced symptoms prior to departure from Guam. This timing shows that contamination occurred at a shared source in Guam rather than on the flights.
What happened on the Cathay Pacific flight from Nepal to Hong Kong?
During a Cathay Pacific flight from Nepal to Hong Kong, 25 passengers reportedly fell sick due to suspected food poisoning. The affected passengers complained of nausea, stomach pain, and discomfort.
How many passengers were affected by food poisoning?
A total of 25 passengers on the flight reported symptoms of food poisoning, including nausea and stomach pain.
Were any passengers hospitalized after landing in Hong Kong?
Upon landing in Hong Kong, medical assistance was provided to the affected passengers. Some were taken to a hospital for further examination and treatment.
What action has Cathay Pacific taken following the incident?
Cathay Pacific has launched an investigation into the incident, including testing the in-flight meals provided. The airline has also issued an apology to the affected passengers.
Is food poisoning common on flights?
Food poisoning on flights is relatively rare, as airlines follow strict food safety and hygiene regulations. However, occasional incidents may occur, prompting investigations and corrective measures.
Will Cathay Pacific compensate the affected passengers?
Cathay Pacific has not yet confirmed compensation details but has assured passengers that they are reviewing the situation and will take appropriate measures.
