An IndiGo flight from Madurai to Delhi was diverted to Indore airport on Saturday evening after a 60-year-old passenger, Atul Gupta, experienced a deterioration in his health mid-air. The passenger was later declared brought dead by doctors at a private hospital near the airport. According to the Director in-charge of the airport, Prabodh Chandra Sharma, Gupta was already suffering from a heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Sharma stated that Gupta was bleeding from the mouth and his condition worsened midway through the journey. The flight then landed at the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport at 5.30 p.m. where the passenger was taken to a private hospital nearby where doctors declared him brought dead.

After the passenger’s death, the flight took off for its destination, New Delhi, at 6:40 pm. The Aerodrome police station reported that Gupta was a resident of Noida and his body will be handed over to his relatives after postmortem.

This incident highlights the importance of disclosing any pre-existing medical conditions before boarding a flight. Passengers with any medical conditions should inform the airlines of their condition and seek medical clearance before boarding.

In a statement, IndiGo said, “We regret to inform that a passenger travelling on flight 6E-2088 from Madurai to Delhi, experienced a medical emergency and was attended to by the on-board doctor. However, despite all efforts, the passenger passed away. As per the standard procedure, the flight made an emergency landing at Indore Airport.”

The airline extended its condolences to the bereaved family and stated that it will provide all necessary assistance to the family. The incident has also been reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for further investigation.