Vietnam Airlines flight VN37 from Hanoi to Frankfurt made an unexpected stop at Erzurum Airport in Turkey on May 6, 2025 after a male passenger became ill on board. Photo: Vietnam Airlines
According to national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, the incident occurred about eight hours into the journey.
The male passenger showed signs of shortness of breath and oxygen deprivation.
The cabin crew immediately issued a call for medical assistance from fellow passengers.
Fortunately, a doctor on board responded and helped stabilize the passenger using oxygen support, but the man's condition continued to deteriorate.
The captain subsequently decided to divert the flight, landing in Erzurum at 10:32 am (Vietnam time) for urgent medical care.
Upon landing, ground medical staff promptly boarded the aircraft and transported the passenger to a local hospital, accompanied by a family member.
After completing necessary procedures and receiving clearance from Turkish authorities, flight VN37 resumed its route to Frankfurt, taking off again at 3:00 pm the same day.
The total delay was more than six hours.
A Vietnam Airlines representative emphasized that although the diversion resulted in scheduling disruptions and additional fuel and ground handling costs, the safety and well-being of passengers remain the carrier’s top priority.
Vietnam Airlines has a history of making in-flight diversions to ensure timely medical assistance.
On January 11, flight VN1602 from Buon Ma Thuot City to Hanoi diverted to Da Nang City for a medical emergency.
In December 2024, flight VN307 from Tokyo to Ho Chi Minh City was rerouted to Taoyuan Airport in Taiwan for similar reasons.
