Etihad Airways flight EY801 diverted to Hong Kong on 24 September after a passenger needed urgent medical treatment, delaying about 500 passengers travelling from Narita International Airport to Abu Dhabi. HK01 reported that the passenger was an 81-year-old man suspected of suffering an acute stroke. Etihad confirmed the medical emergency but declined to provide further details about his condition or personal information.
The Airbus A380-800’s captain chose Hong Kong International Airport as the nearest suitable alternate. Fire and ambulance crews were placed on standby before the aircraft landed safely at about 10pm, and medical personnel took the passenger for treatment. HK01 reported that the aircraft may still have been above its maximum landing weight because it had substantial fuel remaining.
The flight resumed after midnight and reached Abu Dhabi nearly four hours later than scheduled. Etihad Airways said passengers who needed onward connections were being offered rebooking and help with onward travel.