EVA Air has come under scrutiny after reports emerged that a flight attendant fell seriously ill during a flight but allegedly did not receive adequate support from her crew. According to internal sources, the cabin crew member became unwell while on duty, yet the on-duty purser did not assist in contacting the aircraft’s satellite medical system. After landing, her condition was reportedly ignored, and she later passed away upon returning to Taiwan. EVA Air confirmed the death of a staff member and said it has established a task force to investigate the incident. The Taoyuan City Labor Inspection Office stated that it will dispatch personnel today (October 13) to the airline for further inquiry.
The labor office noted that it had not received any official report or complaint regarding the case and only learned about it through social media.
A netizen on Threads shared internal messages from EVA Air, revealing that the flight attendant first experienced health issues in September while flying from Taiwan to Milan. On the return flight, her condition worsened. Crew members suggested using the onboard satellite medical system, but the purser allegedly refused to assist, instead insisting she continue meal service for passengers. Upon landing, the flight attendant reportedly requested an ambulance, but the purser allegedly declined, telling her to walk off the plane herself and repeatedly stating that she would have to pay for the ambulance personally. She was later hospitalized and ultimately passed away.
Colleagues expressed frustration, blaming the tragedy on a system that has long neglected crew health. They noted that taking sick leave, personal leave, or even annual leave can affect scheduling, performance evaluations, promotions, and year-end bonuses. As a result, crew members often feel compelled to work despite severe illness, fearing penalties for requesting time off. Staff hope that this tragedy will prompt the company to finally listen to its employees and make systemic changes, rather than forcing staff to risk their health—or even their lives—to highlight serious issues.
