A United Airlines Boeing 777-200ER was forced to return to Incheon International Airport after an alarming incident involving the flight crew. The aircraft, which had departed from Incheon on a scheduled long-haul flight to the United States, was approximately two hours into its journey when several members of the flight crew began exhibiting symptoms of food poisoning.
The flight, carrying over 200 passengers, quickly became a matter of concern as the affected crew members, including pilots and cabin crew, started experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the potential risk to safety, the captain made the critical decision to turn the plane around and return to Incheon.
Upon the aircraft’s safe arrival back at Incheon, emergency medical teams were on standby to assist the ailing crew members. They were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the passengers were deplaned and provided with accommodations and alternative flight arrangements.
United Airlines issued a statement confirming the incident, expressing concern for the well-being of their crew members, and assuring that a thorough investigation was underway to determine the source of the food poisoning. The airline also apologized to passengers for the disruption to their travel plans, emphasizing that the safety of their customers and crew is always their top priority.
The incident has prompted heightened scrutiny of in-flight catering services, with both United Airlines and the relevant health authorities conducting a detailed review to ensure that such a situation does not recur. While food poisoning incidents on flights are rare, this event underscores the importance of rigorous food safety standards in maintaining the well-being of both passengers and crew during air travel.