Hong Kong’s Cathay apologises after second suspected food poisoning

Hong Kong’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has apologised to affected passengers on two flights from Nepal and pledged to assist health authorities’ investigation after food poisoning struck travellers on two consecutive days.

The latest case involved flight CX640 from Kathmandu, which landed at 3.21am on Thursday with more than a dozen passengers feeling unwell.

The Fire Services Department dispatched multiple ambulances to the airport and 12 people were sent to North Lantau Hospital, according to police.

On Wednesday, 10 passengers aboard CX640 reported food poisoning.

A Cathay spokeswoman said it appeared the source of food contamination was outside the airline’s operation, while also pledging the company would handle the matter transparently and take all necessary corrective actions should the incidents involve food served during the flights.

“We sincerely apologise to the affected passengers for any inconvenience caused,” she said.