According to the airline, the incident occurred on flight VN36 on 6/1. About 8 hours after takeoff, a male German passenger, seated in 11F, began experiencing deteriorating health and difficulty breathing. The cabin crew immediately initiated first aid and medical support procedures according to emergency response protocols.

As the passenger's condition did not improve, the flight crew decided to divert and make an emergency landing at Kolkata airport, ensuring the passenger promptly received medical assistance. Upon notification, Vietnam Airlines representatives in India coordinated with ground services and airport authorities to provide emergency care, then transferred the passenger to a hospital for further treatment.

After the medical assistance was completed, flight VN36 resumed its journey, taking off again at 5:30 on 7/1 local time.

Emergency vehicles ready to assist the passenger at Kolkata airport (India). Photo: VNA

Vietnam Airlines has recorded several similar incidents in the past. On 17/9/2025, flight VN30 from Frankfurt to TP HCM made an emergency landing at Istanbul International Airport, Turkey. On 23/7/2025, flight VN837 from Hanoi to Siem Reap diverted to Da Nang airport. On 6/7/2025, flight VN56 from Hanoi to England also made an emergency landing at Kolkata airport, India.

Vietnam Airlines advises passengers to proactively assess their health before each flight. Should any unusual symptoms arise, passengers should consult a doctor and reconsider their travel plans to ensure their health and safety.