British Airways has initiated an investigation following an incident in which three of its pilots reportedly experienced food poisoning during a stopover in Hyderabad. The situation arose during the operation of flight BA276, which was travelling from Hyderabad to London Heathrow.

Before commencing this long-haul service, the cockpit crew stayed overnight in Hyderabad. Reports indicate that all three pilots suffered illness after consuming breakfast shortly before the flight departure. One pilot allegedly collapsed at approximately 30,000 feet and required oxygen to stabilise.

Despite their deteriorating condition, the other two pilots managed to continue operating the aircraft, which successfully landed at London Heathrow. Their health worsened upon arrival, prompting British Airways to begin an internal review to ascertain the cause of their illness.

Ongoing Investigation by British Airways

Following the incident, British Airways is examining the accommodation used for its flight crews in Hyderabad as part of its investigation. The airline is also exploring whether the food eaten prior to departure or an alternative source might have contributed to the pilots’ sickness.

Biological samples from the affected pilots have reportedly been collected, and each pilot has submitted an Air Safety Report detailing the incident. The airline has communicated that the safety and health of its employees remain its foremost priority, emphasising that flight safety was not compromised during the episode.

British Airways has characterised the illnesses as isolated cases and is actively looking into the specific circumstances surrounding the events leading to the pilots’ food poisoning.

Hygiene Standards and Union Concerns

The incident has brought to light earlier concerns raised by the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) regarding hygiene practices at the Hyderabad hotel where British Airways flight crews typically stay. Reports indicate that the union previously expressed reservations about the standard of accommodation.

As the investigation progresses, the airline is taking these concerns seriously, which have now gained renewed significance in light of the recent health issues experienced by the pilots. The hotel in question is currently under review to determine if conditions contributed to the food poisoning episode.

British Airways has stated its commitment to ensuring a safe working environment for its crews. The continuation of this investigation will seek to provide clarity on the origin of the reported illnesses and enhance the well-being of the airline’s personnel in future operations.

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