The traveler’s wife said she experienced COVID-related symptoms, officials said.
A United flight was diverted after a passenger suffered a medical emergency and died.
United Flight 591 was diverted Monday to New Orleans 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 COVID-related symptoms. Officials have not confirmed whether the passenger was positive for the virus.
“Now that the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] has contacted us directly, we share the requested information with the agency so that they can work with local health officials to disclose any client that CDC believes may be at risk for possible exposure or infection, ”he said. the airline in a statement.
United requires all passengers to complete a “Ready to Fly” checklist before registering for a flight, which requires them to acknowledge that they have not tested positive for COVID-19 or have had any symptoms related to the last two weeks.
“We urge travelers not to travel if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have COVID-related symptoms. In case of doubt, the best option is to get tested,” United said.
The rest of the flight passengers were able to continue with their travel plans or make a later flight.
“The safety and health of our employees and customers is our top priority, which is why we have a number of policies and procedures in place, such as mask mandates, and we require customers to complete a checklist.” to fly “before the flight,” United said in a statement.