A New York physician is suing Singapore Airlines over a severe allergic reaction she experienced during a flight from Germany to New York, claiming that the airline’s negligence led to her being served a meal containing shrimp, despite her informing the crew of her shellfish allergy.
Dr. Doreen Benary, 41, asserts in her lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York that the incident occurred on October 8 during flight SQ026 from Frankfurt. According to her complaint, the allergic reaction was so serious that the pilot was compelled to make an emergency landing in Paris.
Benary, who was traveling in business class, had explicitly warned the crew about her allergy upon boarding. Despite this information, she was served a meal that contained shrimp. It was only after consuming part of the meal that she discovered its contents, leading to a rapid decline in her health. Upon questioning the crew, she received an apology from a flight attendant who acknowledged the mistake.
The doctor experienced significant distress, ultimately necessitating emergency medical treatment in Paris. In her complaint, Benary highlights that cabin crew members have a responsibility to take food allergies seriously, especially when passengers communicate their health concerns.
She is seeking “full, fair and reasonable” compensation for the pain, suffering, and financial losses incurred due to this incident. While a representative from Singapore Airlines stated they cannot comment on ongoing legal matters, the case brings to light the critical importance of adherence to food allergy protocols in airline travel.
This situation underscores the necessity for airlines to maintain rigorous training and awareness regarding allergies to better ensure passenger safety.