The passenger’s wife said she experienced symptoms related to COVID, officials said.
A United flight was diverted after a passenger suffered a medical emergency and died.
United Flight 591 was diverted to New Orleans on Monday after a male passenger fell ill. Paramedics transported the individual to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, the carrier said.
According to airline officials, the passenger’s wife told an emergency medical technician that her husband had symptoms related to COVID. Officials have not confirmed whether the passenger was positive for the virus.
“Now that [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] contacted us directly, we share the requested information with the agency so that they can work with local health officials to contact any client that the CDC believes may be at risk of possible exposure or infection, “he said. the airline in a statement.
United requires all passengers to complete a “Ready-to-Fly” checklist before embarking on a flight, which leads them to acknowledge that they have not tested positive for COVID-19 and have not had any associated symptoms in recent years. two weeks.
“We ask passengers not to travel if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have COVID-related symptoms. If in doubt, the best option is to test yourself,” United said.
The remaining passengers on the flight could continue their travel plans or take a later flight.
“The health and safety of our employees and customers is our highest priority, which is why we have various policies and procedures in place, such as mask warrants and requiring customers to complete a ‘Ready-to-Fly’ checklist. before the flight, ”United said in a statement.