Travelers heading from Spain to London were left stunned when what should have been a routine easyJet flight turned into a scene of confusion and distress.
Reports emerged that an elderly British woman, 89, was wheeled onto the plane in Malaga and later found to have passed away before takeoff.
Fellow passengers described the shocking moment and the ensuing chaos that delayed the flight by almost 12 hours.
Passengers Describe Harrowing Scene
According to eyewitnesses, the woman was assisted onto the aircraft by five relatives who appeared to claim she was simply unwell and had fallen asleep.
The family allegedly convinced ground staff she was fit to fly, even reportedly telling a boarding clerk, “It’s OK, we’re doctors.”
Once onboard, the woman was wheeled to the rear of the plane and lifted into her seat by her family.
Passengers recalled the unsettling scene, describing her as slumped in the wheelchair and looking lifeless.
One witness said the plane had already begun taxiing toward the runway when cabin crew noticed something was seriously wrong.
The aircraft was turned back to the stand, and the flight was delayed for hours.
EasyJet Responds to Claims
EasyJet has since disputed claims that the woman boarded the plane already deceased.
A spokesperson stated the passenger had a “fit to fly” certificate and was alive when she boarded.
They clarified that the plane returned to the stand due to urgent medical assistance, but sadly, the woman later passed away onboard.
The airline offered condolences to the family and emphasized that passenger safety remains their top priority.
Outrage and Confusion Among Travelers
Many passengers expressed outrage and disbelief at what they witnessed.
Petra Boddington, another traveler, said, “What were easyJet staff thinking?
She looked clearly unwell, slumped in a wheelchair, and yet they allowed her on.
If I was drunk, they wouldn’t let me fly, but apparently being critically ill is acceptable?”
Others took to social media to voice frustration.
Tracy-Ann Kitching shared her shock, writing that even a doctor onboard confirmed the woman had already died when placed in her seat.
She praised the first officer for calmly addressing passenger concerns but also criticized the family for what she described as a “terrible and avoidable situation.”
Flight Delays and Logistics Issues
The flight, originally scheduled to depart Malaga at 11:15 am and arrive at London Gatwick at 1:10 pm, did not take off until 10:47 pm and finally landed near midnight.
Passengers spent the delay waiting for food and drink vouchers, frustrated by the long disruption.
Transporting human remains across borders involves strict protocols, usually requiring specialized caskets and cargo transport.
Passengers were left questioning why the woman had been allowed onboard in the first place.
Authorities and Investigation
The Civil Guard in Malaga confirmed officers were called to the aircraft after the woman was pronounced dead.
There is no public information on whether any action was taken against the family members, and it appears no arrests were made.
EasyJet reiterated that they are offering support to the family and thanked passengers for their patience, emphasizing the safety and wellbeing of travelers and crew as their main priority.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn