Qatar Airways faces global outrage after the death of 85-year-old Dr. Asoka Jayaweera, a California-based cardiologist and lifelong vegetarian. He reportedly choked on a non-vegetarian meal served during a long-haul flight from Los Angeles to Sri Lanka.
Vegetarian Request Ignored Mid-Flight
According to a lawsuit filed by his family, Dr. Jayaweera had preordered a vegetarian meal. However, the crew informed him mid-flight that no such meal was available. Flight attendants allegedly told him to “eat around” the meat in a regular meal.
Tragedy Unfolds at 30,000 Feet
While trying to eat cautiously, Dr. Jayaweera began choking and experienced a sharp drop in oxygen levels. The crew attempted emergency aid with help from remote medical advisors, but his condition worsened as the flight continued across the Arctic route.
Family Alleges Airline Negligence
The family claims Qatar Airways refused to divert the flight despite multiple requests, saying it was over the Arctic. Flight data later revealed the aircraft was actually over Wisconsin, where an emergency landing could have saved his life.
Death After Hours of Unconsciousness
By the time the plane reached Edinburgh, Dr. Jayaweera had been unconscious for hours. He was declared dead soon after, with medical reports citing aspiration pneumonia caused by choking.
Lawsuit Highlights Airline’s Accountability Gap
The lawsuit accuses Qatar Airways of negligence for ignoring a simple meal request and mishandling a medical emergency. For an airline known for luxury service, this failure raises serious questions about its safety culture and passenger care.
Vegetarian Travellers Deserve Better Care
Vegetarian and allergy-sensitive passengers trust airlines to respect their dietary needs, not dismiss them. Dr. Jayaweera’s death is a tragic reminder that compassion and accountability must always come before convenience in air travel.
