EW9631 from Rhodes to Düsseldorf hit by suspected norovirus outbreak with passengers ‘vomiting’ on flight
A virus has broken out mid-flight, with several passengers vomiting. Other passengers have described the ‘shocking’ scene.
The outbreak of a suspected virus mid-air has caused chaos on a European flight, with several people vomiting.
Eurowings flight EW9631 was travelling from Rhodes, Greece, to Düsseldorf, Germany on October 18 when several passengers started feeling unwell.
The cabin crew requested priority landing at their German destination to care for those unwell.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Düsseldorf airport activated its mass casualty response, which included medics boarding the plane in hazmat suits to provide treatment to sick passengers, The Sun reported.
Three people were taken to hospital.
Passenger Nathalie Gombik recounted the “shocking” events to The Mirror.
“Seeing so many ambulances and emergency personnel in protective clothing after landing was quite shocking,” she said.
“During the flight, several passengers became ill. I know for certain that three passengers were affected, but it appeared that approximately three more were also experiencing symptoms.
“Some passengers were vomiting during the flight.”
Ms Gombik praised the cabin crew for remaining “calm” and “discreet” on the flight.
“At the time, we had no idea that a mass casualty incident had reportedly been declared, that numerous ambulances had been mobilised or that our aircraft had reportedly been given priority for landing,” she said.
For about 90 minutes the passengers remained onboard the aircraft before they were given permission to disembark.
Ms Gombik said she started feeling unwell two days after the flight.
Since July, there has been a norovirus outbreak on the Greek island. The viral infection is highly contagious and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
A spokesperson for Eurowings confirmed several guests “felt very unwell during the flight”.
“The flight crew therefore requested a priority landing at Düsseldorf Airport,” they said.
“After landing, medical staff examined and cared for three affected guests on site.
“As a precaution, these guests went to hospital.
“All other guests continued their journeys home as normal.
“There were 212 guests and seven crew members on board.
“The cause of the symptoms is unclear and is being looked into.
“The safety and health of our guests and crews is always Eurowings’ top priority.”
Simple Flying reported that the Airbus A321-200 was cleared to fly the following day.
