Vietnam Airlines aircraft turns back in emergency to assist passenger
A Vietnam Airlines flight departing from Ho Chi Minh City to Frankfurt was forced to turn back in the early morning of January 26 after a passenger suffered a serious health problem on board.
Flight VN31, using a Boeing 787 aircraft, had been airborne for around 37 minutes when a female passenger of Spanish nationality developed severe symptoms, including convulsions and vomiting blood. Upon identifying the situation, the cabin crew immediately made an announcement seeking medical assistance.
Two other passengers who are doctors provided first aid, subsequently advising that the aircraft return to Ho Chi Minh City to ensure the passenger’s safety.
Based on an assessment of the passenger’s condition and the doctors’ professional recommendations, the captain decided to divert the flight back to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, while coordinating with the airline’s operations centre and ground services to prepare medical support.
The aircraft landed safely at 1:39 on January 26. The passenger was handed over to medical personnel for further monitoring and treatment, accompanied by a family member and a representative of Vietnam Airlines.
The diversion resulted in a delay of approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes and affected some passengers’ onward connections. However, the decision was shared with understanding and consensus among those on board.
Vietnam Airlines among world’s Top 25 Safest Full-Service Airlines for 2026
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