A father-of-two has tragically died suddenly after suffering a suspected heart attack on a packed passenger jet.
Chris Neill was just 40 years old when he collapsed in front of horrified fellow passengers.
The British dad was traveling back to Liverpool, UK, from Bulgaria with his two sons when he started to feel ill.
Mr. Neill had been enjoying a vacation with his sons Archie, eight, and Robin, 19.
As they were returning home, the dad suffered a heart attack, forcing the Jet2 plane to make an emergency landing in Cologne, Germany.
He was still alive when the plane hit the runway and emergency responders rushed aboard.
However, as he was being led down the plane’s steps, he collapsed again and died on the tarmac.
Funds are now being raised for Neill’s heartbroken family to repatriate his body and pay for his funeral.
His family said his travel insurance had lapsed without renewal.
In a statement on the fundraiser, his family members estimate it will cost them $16,000 to $20,000 to return his body home from Germany to the UK.
A GoFundMe page reads:
“It is going to cost approx £12-£15,000 to get him home which his parents just don’t have.
“Please help bring Chris home for his parents and kids’ sake.
“Thank you from all the family and friends of Chris.”
Former colleague William Wren posted:
“Chris worked for us in the Isle of Man whilst he was living here.
“Was a really nice chap. Can’t believe it! It’s so sad.
“Sorry to everyone connected to Chris for your loss.”
So far, well-wishers have donated more than £4,500 ($6k) towards the £15,000 ($20k) target.
Chris was flying from the city of Bourgas, Bulgaria, to Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport on September 16 when he collapsed suddenly mid-flight.
Around two hours into the flight, the crew declared an emergency due to a medical situation involving a man on board.
The pilots requested an immediate diversion, and the Boeing 737-800 landed in Germany after a rapid descent.
A medical team rushed to the scene but they were too late.
Despite the best efforts of crew on board and paramedics Chris could not be saved.
A Jet2 spokesman said:
“We can confirm that flight LS3214 from Bourgas to Liverpool Johnn Lennon diverted to Cologne on Monday 16th September, due to a customer requiring medical assistance.
“Regrettably, we can confirm that the customer sadly passed away.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the customer’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”
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