Dutch man, 72, dies after complaining of headache on Cathay Pacific flight to Hong Kong

A Dutch passenger has died after collapsing on a Cathay Pacific flight travelling from Amsterdam to Hong Kong on Sunday morning, reported the South China Morning Post.

The incident

Police said they received a report at 7:22am, as the aircraft was approaching Hong Kong International Airport, that a passenger had suddenly lost consciousness during the flight.

Cabin crew immediately provided emergency first aid before the plane landed.

Officers and paramedics were dispatched to the airport, and the man was taken to North Lantau Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The flight involved was CX270, which departed Amsterdam at 12:30pm local time and arrived in Hong Kong at about 7:30am.

Passenger travelling with wife for family visit

The passenger was a 72-year-old Dutch man identified as Antonie, who was travelling with his wife, 69, according to The Standard.

The couple were reportedly planning to transfer to another flight to Melbourne to visit family.

The man was said to have complained of a severe headache at around 5am during the flight and approached a flight attendant for help.

After learning about his medical history, the crew member provided him with medication.

About two hours later, he reportedly vomited and then lost consciousness at around 7:10am.

Doctor on board provided assistance

The cabin crew alerted the captain and made an announcement seeking medical help on board.

A 57-year-old male passenger who identified himself as a doctor came forward and administered first aid.

After the plane landed at Hong Kong International Airport at about 7:40am, the man was rushed to North Lantau Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 8:34am.

In a statement to police, the wife said her husband had no known chronic illnesses.

Initial investigations found no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, and the case has been handed to the Airport District for follow-up investigations.

Cathay Pacific expresses condolences

Cathay Pacific confirmed the incident on flight CX270 from Amsterdam to Hong Kong, saying one passenger had felt unwell before landing.

The airline said its crew provided first aid and arranged for an ambulance to meet the aircraft upon arrival.

It added that it was deeply saddened by the passenger’s passing and extended its heartfelt condolences to the family.

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