Probe Into Cathay Pilots' Mid-air Loss Of Sight

Aviation authorities are investigating two incidents in which Cathay Pacific pilots suddenly lost their eyesight in mid-air.

In January the captain of a flight from Japan to Hong Kong lost his normal vision for 30 minutes when the plane was near Taiwan.

According to a preliminary report, the captain advised the first officer that he had experienced a sudden loss of visual acuity, and was relinquishing control. The first officer took over and requested priority landing at Hong Kong Airport. The plane landed safely.

In the second incident in February, a captain flying from Australia to Hong Kong had difficulties in breathing and seeing clearly when the flight was near Manila. The preliminary report said the captain informed the first officer that he felt out of breath and his vision was impaired. The captain then declared he was incapacitated. The first officer assumed command of the aircraft.

The crew sought assistance from a passenger who was a medical professional and advice from the company doctor in Hong Kong via radio. The condition of the captain stabilised with the supply of medical oxygen.

The Air Accident Investigation Authority is expected to finish the probe in a year.