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MANILA, Philippines – A Philippine Airlines, Incorporated (PAL) flight from Dubai to Manila diverted to Hyderabad, India early Sunday, April 17, after a 40-year-old passenger gave birth in flight.
PAL PR 669 departed Dubai at 11:45 pm on Saturday, April 16, and the flight proceeded smoothly until it reached its 4th hour, when Mary Grace Alejandro, who was 7 months pregnant, began experiencing abdominal pain.
PAL said Alejandro was traveling with her 16-year-old son, Edward Alejandro.
Assisted by the airline’s cabin crew, Alejandro exhibited signs of weakness, according to PAL. Her baby girl, born prematurely at 7 months, was in delicate condition.
“This prompted a flight diversion to the nearest airport – Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, India,” PAL said in a statement.
When the plane landed in Hyderabad at 3:40 am (Manila time), PAL said Alejandro was rushed to the Apollo Hospital, accompanied by representatives from Aero Technical, which handles PAL’s passenger services.
The flag carrier said Alejandro lost consciousness en route to the hospital, but regained it and was eventually declared in stable condition.
“The baby girl is currently on ventilator support and under observation. Projected full recovery is 6 weeks,” PAL said.
PAL said its airport services team is in contact with Apollo Hospital to secure updates on the patients’ condition.
Alejandro’s husband and sister are set to arrive in Hyderabad on Monday, April 18.
“It is our duty to divert a flight when necessary so that urgent medical attention and professional care can be given at the soonest time possible. It is part of our tradition of providing service with a heart,” PAL said.
PR 669 left India at 7:46 am (Manila time) and arrived here at 1:30 pm.
According to airport documents, Alejandro filled out an Expectant Mother Information Sheet, declaring she was 7 months pregnant and certified fit for travel.
Under existing PAL regulations, an expectant mother is prohibited from traveling upon reaching 8 months. – Rappler.com
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