In an unsettling incident aboard a Qatar Airways flight, an Australian couple, Mitchell Ring and Jennifer Colin, described the moment they were confronted with a deceased passenger’s body placed beside them. This unfortunate event unfolded during their journey to Venice, with the couple sharing their ordeal in a Channel 9 interview. The woman, who had collapsed in the aisle, was declared dead, prompting cabin crew to relocate her corpse beside Mr. Ring for the remaining hours of the flight, despite available empty seats.
Death Disturbance: Australian Couple Faces Trauma on Qatar Airways Flight

Death Disturbance: Australian Couple Faces Trauma on Qatar Airways Flight
An Australian couple recounted a distressing experience when a deceased passenger was placed next to them on a flight from Melbourne to Doha.
Witnesses stated that cabin staff acted quickly when the woman fell ill, but tragic circumstances prevented her resuscitation. The couple recalled the moments that followed, as crew members attempted to wheel the body towards the business class but ultimately had no choice but to place it next to Mr. Ring while Ms. Colin moved to an adjacent seat. Post-flight, passengers remained seated as medical personnel boarded the aircraft, and Mr. Ring expressed shock at the ordeal—the sight of the woman’s face was particularly haunting, he noted.
Despite their traumatic experience, Qatar Airways and Qantas have not provided any outreach or support to the couple. Mr. Ring conveyed concern about the airline’s lack of communication, stating a duty of care towards passengers is essential. Ms. Colin described the incident as "traumatic," emphasizing the need for clear protocols during such unfortunate instances. In its response, Qatar Airways expressed condolences for the deceased’s family and acknowledged the distress caused, assuring that they would contact passengers in accordance with their policies.
This incident raises critical questions about crisis management on flights and the emotional well-being of passengers when faced with unforeseen tragedies.
Despite their traumatic experience, Qatar Airways and Qantas have not provided any outreach or support to the couple. Mr. Ring conveyed concern about the airline’s lack of communication, stating a duty of care towards passengers is essential. Ms. Colin described the incident as "traumatic," emphasizing the need for clear protocols during such unfortunate instances. In its response, Qatar Airways expressed condolences for the deceased’s family and acknowledged the distress caused, assuring that they would contact passengers in accordance with their policies.
This incident raises critical questions about crisis management on flights and the emotional well-being of passengers when faced with unforeseen tragedies.