Dead flight attendant (†23): He had just finished his training

Graz/Zurich - Several days after an emergency landing of a Swiss aircraft, a flight attendant died in hospital. An autopsy has now provided initial findings. Nevertheless, questions remain unanswered.

After the emergency landing, the 74 passengers had to leave the plane via emergency slides. (symbolic image)
After the emergency landing, the 74 passengers had to leave the plane via emergency slides. (symbolic image)  © Salvatore Di Nolfi/KEYSTONE/dpa

The Airbus A220-300 was en route from Bucharest (Romania) to Zurich (Switzerland) on December 23. Due to problems with an engine and smoke developing in the cabin and cockpit, the aircraft had to make an emergency landing in Graz, Austria.

The flight attendant, who according to the Swiss magazine"Blick" probably fell unconscious on board, had to be flown to hospital. He died there seven days later.

Particularly tragic: the young man had only started his training in October and had successfully completed the training flights.

The body of the 23-year-old has now been autopsied, as a spokesperson for the public prosecutor's office in Graz told "Blick". It is to be transferred to Switzerland in the next few days.

"The brain was severely damaged by a severe lack of oxygen and the young flight attendant died as a result in the intensive care unit," said spokesman Hansjörg Bacher.

Swelling of the brain was also detected. Further investigations are underway.

The Swiss man was also found to have an "extremely dilated heart" for his age. A purulent bronchitis cannot be ruled out either. "We are also investigating the role played by the breathing mask that the flight attendant was wearing."

Swiss aircraft to be used again soon

Swiss assured that it would cooperate with the authorities.
Swiss assured that it would cooperate with the authorities.  © Patrick Pleul/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa

There have reportedly been problems with the masks for some time. These are special masks with oxygen generators for the crew, "so that breathing is possible even when smoke is developing in the cabin and the crew members can move around unhindered", according to Swiss.

The old model was to be replaced, but this has not yet happened in all aircraft. However, the airline assures: "They are still certified and are used by various airlines."

The public prosecutor's office is investigating negligent homicide and negligent bodily injury. However, there are no suspects yet. The crew is now to be questioned about what happened on board.

It is still unclear why the turbine failed and the smoke was able to enter the interior. The investigation will take some time.

The aircraft, which has already been fitted with a new engine, should be ready to fly again next week. The seat covers and carpet are still being replaced.