A Qatar Airways flight from Washington Dulles to Doha turned into a nightmare for a family when a three-year-old girl suffered a severe allergic reaction midair. Her mother has now filed a $5 million lawsuit against the airline for negligence.
Child Suffers In-Flight Allergy Attack
According to the lawsuit, the child’s mother, Swetha Neerukonda, had informed Qatar Airways in advance about her daughter’s severe dairy and nut allergies. Despite this, a crew member allegedly gave the child a KitKat bar containing both allergens while the mother briefly stepped away.
Crew Accused of Negligence
The toddler went into anaphylactic shock, requiring an EpiPen injection. The lawsuit states that the cabin crew failed to announce for medical help or contact ground-based medical professionals. The mother also claims that some crew members “mocked” her concerns and mishandled the emergency.
Secondary Reaction After Landing
Upon reaching Doha, the child reportedly suffered a secondary allergic reaction before boarding her connecting flight to India. She was later hospitalized and treated in intensive care. The incident has raised serious questions about how airlines handle medical emergencies.
Legal Action Under Montreal Convention
The lawsuit, filed under the Montreal Convention, seeks $5 million in damages for negligence and emotional distress. The case has brought renewed scrutiny to airline safety policies, particularly around allergy management and crew preparedness during in-flight medical incidents.
Impact on Airline Industry
Aviation experts believe the outcome could set a precedent for future airline operations. If proven, the case may lead to stricter crew training and clearer policies for passengers with severe food allergies. The case remains active in U.S. court proceedings as of November 2025.
