Chaos ensued aboard a Korean Air flight bound for Taiwan when a sudden malfunction in the cabin pressurization system left passengers with nosebleeds and ear pain.
On Saturday, Korean Air Flight KE189 experienced a rapid descent from over 30,000 feet to around 9,000 feet, as reported by South Korea's Yonhap news agency. This abrupt drop in altitude caused significant discomfort among passengers and led to various health issues.
At least two passengers suffered nosebleeds due to the sudden change in pressure, while 15 others reported experiencing ear pain and hyperventilation. Although no serious injuries were reported, 13 individuals required medical attention and were taken to a hospital.
A Taiwanese passenger shared her terrifying experience on social media, recounting how the plane plummeted shortly after meal service, causing severe turbulence in the cabin. She compared the sensation to the intense G-force felt on a rollercoaster. She described suffering from severe ear and head pain, and dizziness, and noted that children on board were left frightened and crying.
The pilot, prioritizing passenger safety, decided to turn the aircraft around and made an emergency landing at Incheon International Airport.
Korean Air has issued an apology for the incident, stating that they have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the malfunction. The airline has assured passengers that all necessary maintenance measures will be implemented to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The rescheduled flight departed at 10:30 am on Sunday, approximately 19 hours later than originally planned.
