Simple Flying quite commonly reports on aircraft which have been diverted for one reason or another. Just last week saw a United Airlines aircraft get stuck in Goose Bay following a diversion. Unfortunately, today's diversion story occurred under tragic circumstances. Simple Flying has learnt that a Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330 had to divert to San Francisco after a member of crew passed away during the flight. While it isn't unheard of for people to pass away during a flight, what makes this incident unusual is that it was a member of cabin crew who was affected.

Hawaiian Airlines Diverted
Emile Griffith sadly passed away while working onboard a Hawaiian Airlines flight. Photo: Hawaiian Airlines

HAL50

The tragic incident occurred on Hawaiian Airlines flight 50. HAL50 is scheduled to depart Honolulu at 1630. Following a 9 hour 15-minute flight, it is then scheduled to land at New York's John F Kennedy airport at 06:45 the next day. Unfortunately, on Friday the flight carrying 253 passengers and 12 crew didn't make it to New York. While flying across the Pacific Ocean, a crew member by the name of Emile Griffith suffered from a medical emergency.

Hawaiian Airlines Diverted
Flight data suggests the incident happened over the Pacific Ocean. Image: FlightAware.com

Crew and doctors travelling on board performed CPR on Mr Griffith in the first class section of the aircraft. Upon arrival at the gate at San Francisco passengers were told to stay in their seats. It is reported by NBC News that efforts to resuscitate Mr Griffith were suspended in the air. Unfortunately, The San Mateo County Coroner declared Mr Griffith dead when the flight landed. It is thought that Mr Griffith, who has 31 years of experience at Hawaiian, suffered a heart attack.

Hawaiian Statment

Addressing members of the press Ann Botticelli, senior vice president of corporate communications at the airline, said:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Emile Griffith, a member of our flight attendant ‘ohana for over 31 years who passed away while working on our flight between Honolulu and New York last night. We are forever grateful for Emile’s colleagues and good Samaritans on board who stayed by his side and provided extensive medical help." Hawaiian Airlines Diverted
Ms Botticelli continued: "Emile both loved and treasured his job at Hawaiian and always shared that with our guests. Our hearts are with Emile’s family, friends and all those fortunate to have known him.” Hawaiian Airlines rebooked every passenger who had their travel plans disrupted during the flight. Additionally, the airline offered every passenger compensation. The airline has also made counselling available for any affected member of staff.