Flight SQ899 had to return to the gate after being moved from its parking position towards the runway when the pilot became unwell. - XIANXIDELVJUREN/XIAOHONGSHU via ST/ANN
SINGAPORE: A Singapore-bound SIA flight was delayed for more than six hours in Hong Kong on March 29 after one of its pilots fell ill.
Flight SQ899 was scheduled to depart for Singapore in the morning, but the plane had to return to the gate after being moved from its parking position towards the runway when the pilot became unwell.
In response to queries from The Straits Times, Singapore Airlines said the decision was made to seek medical assistance for the pilot, leading to the extended delay.
According to SIA’s website, the flight was originally set for a 9.05am departure on March 29 from Hong Kong International Airport. However, the plane took off for Changi Airport only around 3.40pm, resulting in a delay of more than six hours.
The national carrier said affected customers were provided with meal vouchers, refreshments and drinks.
The plane landed at 7.36pm in Changi Airport.
A photo of an SIA aircraft connected to a jet bridge was shared on Chinese social media and e-commerce platform Xiaohongshu on the morning of March 29.
The post by a frustrated passenger on the delayed flight described how all passengers were required to disembark with their luggage, and were left without clear updates on when they could reboard.
Apologising for the incident, SIA told ST: “The safety of our customers and crew is always our top priority.” - The Straits Times/ANN
