Disabled Passenger Dies At Gatwick Airport
An investigation has been launched into the death of a passenger at Gatwick airport.
The passenger – whose identity has been kept anonymous – required medical attention while at the airport on Wednesday, 15 June.
However, they unfortunately passed away.
Advert
The passenger reportedly just got off an easyJet flight at the North Terminal of the airport.
He was one of three different passengers who required special assistance due to having 'restricted mobility'.
Aviation logistics provider Wilson James sent a member of staff to assist the passengers off the plane.
However, according to reports, the passenger ended up sustaining fatal injuries from a fall down an escalator after trying to make his own way to the terminal.
EasyJet told Sky News that 'a number of [its] cabin crew provided medical assistance to a passenger at Gatwick Airport'.
The crew helped the man while 'waiting for paramedics to arrive'
The statement continued: "However the passenger sadly later passed away.
"Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this difficult time."
A spokesperson for Gatwick airport told LADbible: "This is a sad and tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the family of the deceased.
"A member of Wilson James staff was waiting when the aircraft arrived and was in the process of disembarking the three PRM passengers when the incident occurred. Staff shortages were not a factor in this incident as has been claimed. It is normal for one staff member to disembark three passengers who require assistance by taking them one at a time the short distance to the waiting buggy.
"A formal investigation is currently under way and it would not be appropriate to comment further."
On Thursday, Gatwick was hit with a series of delays not just affecting easyJet but British Airways and Whizz Air too.
Over 50 arrivals and departures for easyJet were grounded.
Gatwick airport stated: "After a significant and rapid upturn in traffic, Gatwick airport is working with airlines to implement deliverable timetables to help prevent short notice and last-minute cancellations.
"Under-resourced airline ground handling companies will cause poor service this summer and delays, unless urgent action is taken."
A baggage handler has predicted that such staff shortages and airport mayhem - with many left loitering around the airport, queueing into carparks or waiting hours for luggage - could carry on for the next two years.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Poppy Bilderbeck