CHEMICAL DRAMA
Two American Airlines crew unconscious and passengers suffer ‘burning eyes’ after chemical spill on London to US flight
TWO American Airlines crew members passed out and passengers suffered "burning eyes" on a flight travelling from London to America today following a "chemical spill."
The US flight AA729 from London Heathrow to Philadelphia was diverted to Dublin airport at about 1pm after a bleach-like cleaning liquid was spilled.
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Once the plane landed, two crew members and five passengers were taken to hospital, the airline told Sun Online.
On the Air Traffic Control audio, the pilot said the Callington cleaning product had been used at London Heathrow but had been left in one of the aircraft toilets.
It had spilled and seeped into the carpet of the plane and the smell of the liquid left those on board suffering ill effects.
Two cabin crew lost consciousness and there were complaints from passengers of "burning eyes" and itchy skin.
The plane landed in Dublin.
Katie Phillips, a passenger on board the diverted flight, tweeted that a "chemical spillage" led to a "sickness outbreak" on the plane.
Phillips told CNN the odour smelled "slightly sweeter than fuel."
She added: "We were delayed for nearly an hour at Heathrow when they suspected a strange smell."
Phillips spoke of the moment she saw a member of the cabin crew take ill.
She said: "I could see her. She was surrounded by other staff members."
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A spokesman for the airline said: "American Airlines flight 729 from London Heathrow to Philadelphia diverted to Dublin due to an odour caused by a spilled cleaning solution in the galley.
"The flight landed safely in Dublin at 1.15pm (UK time), and taxied to the gate.
"Medical personnel have met the aircraft to evaluate any crew members or passengers who may need additional assistance.
"Two crew members and five customers were transported to the hospital for evaluation".
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A spokesman for Dublin Airport said: "American Airlines flight AA729 on route from London Heathrow to Philadelphia was diverted into Dublin Airport for a medical emergency.
"The aircraft landed safely at approximately 1.20pm.
"As per standard operating procedures there was a full turn out of Dublin Airport's emergency fire services."