Qatar Airways Faces Backlash After Couple Seated Next to Deceased Passenger on Flight

(DailyVantage.com) – Qatar Airways faces intense criticism after an Australian couple was seated next to a deceased passenger for hours on a flight, with concerns raised over the airline’s handling of the situation.

At a Glance

Qatar Airways conducts internal review on handling of deceased passenger.
Cabin crew accused of mishandling seating of couple next to the deceased.
The couple was unable to change seats during the flight.
Airline defends actions, offering condolences and compensation.

Incident Sparks Backlash

A Qatar Airways flight from Melbourne to Doha became a focal point of controversy after a female passenger suffered a fatal medical emergency. Mitchell Ring and Jennifer Colin, seated next to the deceased passenger for the remainder of the flight, expressed dissatisfaction over the airline’s handling of the situation. The couple was not permitted to change seats and was required to remain seated while medical staff attended to the deceased upon landing.

Qatar Airways conducted an internal review and concluded that its crew acted in a timely and professional manner, adhering to industry standards. The airline maintained its position, asserting that such unexpected situations do occur and their staff are trained to manage them with respect.

Airline’s Position and Response

Qatar Airways defended their crew, declaring that “After an internal review, it is clear that Qatar Airways cabin crew acted quickly, appropriately and professionally at all times in line with training and industry standard practice.”

The airline also reached out to the deceased passenger’s family as well as the affected couple, offering condolences and compensation. Despite the airline’s defense, the incident shone a spotlight on the delicate nature of managing in-flight emergencies and how they impact travelers.

Dissatisfaction Among Affected Passengers

Mitchell Ring voiced his concerns about the airline’s response, stating, “They have a duty of care towards their customers as well as their staff. We should be contacted to make sure, do you need some support, do you need some counseling.”

The couple felt that while they were offered eventual support, the initial handling of the incident could have been better addressed to provide more immediate emotional care during the flight. This lack of immediate support has brought scrutiny on how airlines should improve protocols when dealing with such sensitive situations.