Swiss Flight Attendant Dies After Emergency Landing Incident

CHSwitzerland|

A Swiss International Air Lines flight attendant, aged 23, tragically died following an emergency landing on December 23, 2023, due to severe cabin smoke caused by engine problems. The flight, en route from Bucharest, Romania, to Zurich, had to make an emergency landing in Graz, Austria.

During the incident, smoke filled the aircraft's cabin, prompting the evacuation of all 74 passengers and five crew members. Seventeen individuals required medical attention after the evacuation. According to an autopsy report, the flight attendant died from hypoxic brain damage, which is attributed to a critical lack of oxygen. The airline expressed deep sorrow, with CEO Jens Fehlinger stating, "We are devastated at our dear colleague's death."

Following the incident, a public prosecutor's office in Graz initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the flight attendant's death. Initial findings indicated a potential issue with one of the plane's Pratt & Whitney engines, but the airline maintained that the safety of the aircraft type was not in question.

As the investigation continues, the company and the public await further details regarding the tragic event.

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