An investigation by the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) into suspected food poisoning cases on Cathay Pacific's flight CX640 from Kathmandu to Hong Kong has revealed that 43 passengers experienced symptoms of foodborne illness. The airline acknowledged the findings and confirmed that it has been cooperating transparently with health authorities. The CHP did not rule out the possibility that the illnesses were caused by beetroot salad contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, served during the flights on January 7 and 8, 2025. Symptoms appeared within 10 to 60 minutes after consuming the meals, affecting individuals aged between 11 and 75 years. No hospitalizations were reported. Stool samples from two affected passengers tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus. Cathay Pacific stated that internal lab tests on 57 samples showed no contamination and that this particular salad is not served on other flights. The airline has taken immediate actions to address the issue and enhance food safety protocols.

Swift Response and Cooperation with Health Authorities

Cathay Pacific has demonstrated a proactive approach in addressing the recent incidents of food poisoning aboard its flights. Since the onset of these events, the airline has maintained open and transparent communication with relevant authorities, including the Centre for Health Protection. This collaboration ensured a thorough investigation into the suspected cases, which involved 43 passengers who developed symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea shortly after consuming inflight meals. Despite the alarming nature of the situation, none of the affected individuals required hospitalization, alleviating some concerns about the severity of the outbreak.

The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger well-being by immediately implementing corrective measures. Cathay Pacific promptly removed the implicated beetroot salad from circulation and reinforced its end-to-end food-handling processes. Additionally, staff training programs were enhanced to ensure stricter adherence to food hygiene standards. The airline also adopted all recommendations made by the Centre for Health Protection to further strengthen its food safety protocols. Cathay Pacific reiterated its sincere apologies to all affected customers, underscoring its dedication to maintaining the highest levels of service and safety.

Investigation Findings and Preventive Measures

The Centre for Health Protection conducted an extensive investigation into the suspected food poisoning cases on Cathay Pacific's flight CX640. The probe concluded that the beetroot salad, possibly contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, was likely the source of the illness. A total of 43 passengers, ranging in age from 11 to 75, exhibited symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea within a short period after eating the meal. The clinical symptoms and incubation period were consistent with food poisoning caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Although stool samples from two patients tested positive for the bacteria, Cathay Pacific's internal lab tests on 57 samples did not reveal any signs of contamination.

To prevent future occurrences, Cathay Pacific took decisive action. The airline discontinued serving the specific beetroot salad involved in the incidents and implemented additional measures to reinforce its food-handling procedures. Staff received enhanced training on food hygiene practices, and the company adopted all recommendations provided by the Centre for Health Protection. These steps aim to ensure that stringent food safety standards are upheld across all operations. Cathay Pacific remains committed to providing safe and enjoyable travel experiences for its passengers, emphasizing that no similar incidents have occurred on any of its recent flights aside from these two cases.