A model has been rushed to hospital with mystery headaches and dizzy spells after a nightmare flight that left passengers fearing the worst.
Xianelle Lopez was on board a Philippine Airlines flight when it reportedly suffered a cabin pressurisation issue mid-air.
The 23 year old was travelling from Dumaguete Airport in Negros Oriental to Manila on 19 April when the ordeal unfolded.
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Passengers were left sweltering and distressed as conditions inside the cabin rapidly worsened.
“From the time we boarded, many passengers noticed that the cabin felt unusually warm and uncomfortable,” Xianelle told need To know.
“Some people asked the cabin crew and we were advised to wait as the air system would start soon.
“At that time, we were not informed of any existing issue prior to departure, so we assumed everything would normalise once the flight was underway.
“However, even after takeoff, the situation did not improve.
“As the flight continued, the heat inside the cabin became more difficult to tolerate.
“Passengers were visibly uncomfortable, some were sweating heavily.
“Children were crying, and I observed a pregnant foreigner seated behind me who appeared to have turned pale and was making an effort to breathe as best she could.”
The model, who lives in Cebu, said she began to feel seriously unwell as the flight continued.
She said: “The atmosphere on the plane became increasingly uncomfortable, particularly due to the heat and what felt like very limited airflow.
“I began to feel dizzy, weak, and uncomfortable, and had difficulty managing my condition.
“As the situation continued, I began to feel lightheaded and unwell.
“The experience was distressing for me, especially as my symptoms developed while still onboard.
“At one point, the pilot informed us of a technical issue, and later, oxygen masks were deployed.”
The plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Iloilo City.
Xianelle said: “This was a very distressing moment for many of us onboard.”
After landing, Xianelle was still suffering.
She said: “I was still shaking, dizzy, and experiencing a severe headache, along with discomfort in my ear and temporary difficulty hearing.
“I needed assistance to safely disembark the plane.”
Passengers were evacuated from the Airbus A320 and offered accommodation and a replacement flight the next day.
An airline spokesperson said: “Philippine Airlines confirms the diversion of Flight PR2544 (Dumaguete–Manila) to Iloilo following a pressurisation indication, in keeping with safety protocols.
“The aircraft landed safely, and assistance was provided to passengers and crew.
“We recognise this was a difficult experience for those on board.”
But the ordeal didn’t end there – as Xianelle later needed hospital treatment.
She said: “Since the incident, I have been experiencing persistent headaches, dizziness, and body weakness.
“I sought medical attention and underwent a CT scan, although I was unable to complete the final reading at that time due to my travel situation.
“Until now, I am still recovering and experiencing headaches and discomfort.
“At this point, it is still uncertain if I will face any long term health problems.
“I am awaiting further medical evaluation and results to better understand my condition.”
The experience has also left her shaken about flying again.
She added: “I do feel a bit anxious about flying again after what happened.
“Even now, when I see a plane, I feel slightly shaky and it brings back memories of the incident.
“It was a very overwhelming experience for me, especially during turbulence, and I felt extremely scared at that time.
“Even after landing, I was still shaking and had a strong headache, along with discomfort in my left ear.
“But I am focussing on my recovery, and praying for peace and strength.
“I hope that in time, I will feel confident to fly again.
“I am currently spending time with my family, especially my child.
“I hope that sharing my experience can help raise awareness and encourage better care and support for passengers in similar situations.”
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