Hyderabad, July 24: British Airways has launched an investigation after three pilots operating a flight from Hyderabad to London reportedly fell ill during the journey, raising concerns over a suspected case of food poisoning. Despite the medical emergency, the flight landed safely at London Heathrow Airport, and the airline confirmed that passenger safety was never compromised.
According to reports, the incident occurred on British Airways Flight BA276 after the flight crew had completed an overnight stopover in Hyderabad. During the flight, all three pilots began experiencing symptoms of illness, with one pilot becoming seriously unwell and requiring oxygen while the aircraft was at cruising altitude. The remaining pilots continued to operate the flight safely until landing.
Following the aircraft’s arrival in London, the affected crew members received medical attention and submitted mandatory air safety reports. British Airways has initiated a detailed inquiry to determine whether contaminated food, food poisoning, or another factor was responsible for the incident. As part of the investigation, the airline is reviewing its crew accommodation and catering arrangements in Hyderabad.
Airline officials stated that the exact cause of the illness has not yet been established and that all possibilities are being examined. Samples have reportedly been collected as part of the investigation, and the airline is working with relevant authorities to identify the source of the illness and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The unusual incident has drawn attention within the aviation industry because multiple members of the cockpit crew were affected during the same flight. Aviation safety experts note that airlines maintain strict operational procedures to ensure that flights remain safe even when crew members experience unexpected medical issues.
British Airways reiterated that safety remains its highest priority and said it will take any necessary corrective measures based on the findings of the investigation. The inquiry is expected to determine whether changes are required in crew catering, accommodation, or other operational practices to avoid similar incidents in the future.