A mother has publicly praised the AirAsia flight and ground crew for their quick thinking, care, and professionalism after her infant daughter experienced a medical emergency onboard flight AK115 from Guangzhou to Kuala Lumpur.
The flight, which departed at 5:55am, saw a dramatic moment mid-air when Natashya Sofea, aged 1 year and 7 months, became pale, unresponsive, and appeared to struggle with her breathing approximately 1.5 hours after takeoff.
According to the mother’s account, the child had just awakened from sleep and breastfed when she suddenly turned visibly ill—her lips and face turned pale, and she grew weak and unresponsive.
“I immediately picked her up, tried to stimulate her, and asked the cabin crew for oxygen. The crew responded quickly and efficiently. After receiving oxygen, her colour began to return,” she shared.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the AirAsia cabin crew promptly made an onboard announcement seeking medical assistance. Fortunately, a doctor on board responded immediately and conducted an assessment. The crew also consulted the pilot, who swiftly agreed to lower the aircraft’s altitude in coordination with the doctor’s advice to stabilise the child.
With the baby’s condition stabilised but still requiring urgent medical attention, the flight was diverted to Ho Chi Minh City for emergency care. During the 30-minute descent, the cabin crew continuously monitored the baby’s condition, massaging her hands and feet, checking her pulse, and providing reassurance to the family.
Upon landing in Ho Chi Minh, a medical team was already on standby and boarded the aircraft to assess the situation. The decision was made to disembark the child and her parents for further treatment.
The mother praised AirAsia ground staff member Mr Alan Vuu at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, who remained with the family throughout their hospital visit. She noted that thanks to AirAsia’s swift coordination, her daughter received immediate medical care, undergoing a full series of tests including ECG, echocardiogram, and X-ray—all within an hour of arrival.
“Mr Alan Vuu stayed with us from start to finish, ensuring everything went smoothly. We didn’t have to wait at the hospital at all.”
In a commendable gesture, AirAsia also provided a complimentary return flight to Kuala Lumpur and ensured the family was fully supported through the boarding process.
The mother expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the following crew members:
- Captain Sangeran Surendran
- SFO Muhammad Syafiq bin Nor’en
- SCC Mohd Ridzwan Ong
- CC Stephenie Unyang Dungo
- CC Nurul Nasuha Binti Mohd Maznan
- CC Amirul Ariffin Bin Junaidi
- Mr Alan Vuu, Ho Chi Minh ground staff
“Their professionalism, care, and humanity were beyond words. We are forever grateful.”
AirAsia has yet to release an official statement but is expected to acknowledge the commendable actions of its flight and ground crew, which exemplify excellence in passenger care and emergency response.
The mother’s heartfelt Facebook post has garnered over 200K likes and 40K shares at the time of writing.
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