A flight attendant has tragically died after collapsing while passengers were boarding the airplane.
On Saturday, September 14, Gabriella Cario boarded ITA Airways flight 1156 at Reggio Calabria Airport, southeast of Naples, heading to Rome Fiumicino Airport in southern Italy.
The 57-year-old, a mother of three, was an ITA Airways flight attendant based in Rome and worked on both domestic and international flights. However, she was traveling as a passenger during the weekend flight.
Reports indicate that Gabriella felt unwell while waiting at the boarding gate. Unfortunately, her condition worsened rapidly once she was on the plane.
Gabriella reportedly did not seek medical attention when she first felt ill, as she was determined to return home to her husband and their three sons.
She collapsed onboard in front of other passengers. Paramedics were rushed onto the plane, and all other passengers were evacuated.
Tragically, Gabriella passed away within minutes.
The cause of Gabriella’s death has not yet been publicly disclosed, though some outlets have reported it as a ‘sudden illness’.
As a result, ITA Airways flight 1156 was postponed until later in the evening, and other flights experienced delays.
Gabriella’s funeral is reported to be taking place today, September 17, at Santissima Annunziata Parish in Sabaudia, according to Il Mattino.
Alberto Mosca, the mayor of her hometown Sabaudia near Latina, commented on her sudden passing.
He said in a statement, “I knew Gabriella. She was a bright, always-smiling, and kind woman. On behalf of the administration and the entire community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband and her beloved three children.”
People have also been using social media to pay their respects.
One Facebook user commented, “We always think we are fine, but we are not machines. Please take your health seriously out there, my dear colleagues. This is tragic.”
Another added, “Our friend and colleague Gabriella. A wonderful smile across the sky. Fly high, we will not forget you.”
A third person said, “She was lovely. Condolences to her family and friends.”
A fourth wrote, “Deep condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends at (877) 969-0010.