British Airways pilots experienced food poisoning following a layover, with one pilot becoming ‘incapacitated.’ The pilots had a stop in India and shared breakfast at a hotel lounge in Hyderabad, along with consuming bottled water purchased from an external vendor.
One pilot fell severely ill, requiring oxygen at 30,000 feet during the 10.5-hour flight to London Heathrow. The other two pilots managed to continue their duties but developed symptoms upon landing in the UK.
British Airways assured that passenger safety was not compromised, and the flight proceeded without issues. However, sources from the pilots’ union Balpa expressed concern over hygiene at the £130-per-night hotel, citing previous complaints.
Air Safety reports were filed, and samples were provided by the pilots for medical analysis to identify the exact source of the illness. British Airways is evaluating alternative accommodation options in Hyderabad.
The airline emphasized the well-being of its staff as a priority and stated that crew accommodation in that location is under review due to isolated sickness reports. An investigation has been initiated, with British Airways reiterating their commitment to the safety of both passengers and crew throughout the incident.
