British Airways is investigating after three pilots on a Hyderabad-to-London flight reportedly suffered food poisoning, prompting safety reports and a review of crew accommodation and catering arrangements.
WEBDESK – MEDIABITES
British Airways has launched an internal investigation after all three pilots operating a flight from Hyderabad, India, to London Heathrow reportedly suffered food poisoning following an overnight stay in the southern Indian city.
According to reports, the incident involved flight BA276, where one pilot became seriously ill during the journey and was reportedly rendered “incapacitated” while the aircraft was cruising at around 30,000 feet. The pilot was placed on oxygen during the flight and required urgent medical treatment after the aircraft landed safely in London.
Despite experiencing similar symptoms, the two other pilots continued operating the flight. Their conditions reportedly worsened as the journey progressed, but they were able to complete the flight without further incident.
Initial findings suggest the three pilots had eaten breakfast together in the hotel lounge before departing Hyderabad. Reports also indicate they drank bottled water supplied by an external company, raising questions about the possible source of the illness.
Following the incident, all three crew members submitted Air Safety Reports and were asked to provide medical samples to help doctors determine the cause of the suspected food poisoning.
British Airways confirmed it is investigating the matter and reviewing the accommodation arrangements for flight crews staying in Hyderabad.
“The welfare of our colleagues is a top priority, and we are reviewing crew accommodation in this location following some isolated reports of sickness,” the airline said in a statement.
The airline has not disclosed whether the illness originated from food served at the hotel, bottled water, or another source. No passengers were reported to have been affected during the flight.
The investigation is expected to examine catering, food hygiene practices, water supplies, and hotel services used by British Airways crew members during overnight layovers. The airline is also reviewing its hotel options in Hyderabad as a precaution.
The incident highlights the importance of strict health and safety protocols for airline crews, particularly on long-haul international flights where pilot fitness is critical to flight operations. Aviation safety procedures require airlines to report and investigate any event that could affect the safe operation of an aircraft, even if a flight lands without incident.
If confirmed as food poisoning, the case would represent a rare occurrence in which all operating pilots on the same flight became ill, prompting a broader review of crew welfare and risk management measures.
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