A British Airways pilot is recovering at home after suffering a terrifying attack through which he was reportedly stabbed by a knife. The pilot, described as a veteran on the airline, was held at gunpoint within the moments leading as much as the stabbing.
The incident highlights the crime rates and violence which have been happening in some South African states. British Airways said the pilot disregarded a rule intended to make sure crew members’ safety.
Details of the incident
Based on The Sun, the pilot and one other crew member left their hotel in Johannesburg to go on a run during their layover. Although details on the incident’s time, date, and placement weren’t made available, the pilot was held at gunpoint before a violent person shoved a knife into his thigh. He was then transported to a hospital to receive treatment.
Photo: Ceri Breeze/Shutterstock
British Airways reportedly has strict rules in place for the security of its crew in South Africa. Crew members aren’t allowed to depart a security-approved area through which their luxury hotel is situated. Unruly and unsafe areas of Johannesburg are otherwise considered off-limits to crew members during their layovers in town.
In a series of statements to The Sun, British Airways described the horrifying incident and said the 2 crew members ignored its orders.
“The principles are there for a reason. Crew are ordered not to depart the hotel compound. However the captain and crew member decided to risk it and go for a jog. Soon afterwards they were followed and held-up at gunpoint. During a melee the captain was stabbed within the leg. It was a harrowing ordeal. The pilot was taken to hospital. Everyone seems to be just so thankful he’s okay. It might have been a lot worse.”
Safest spot in town
The crew members’ hotel is situated within the Melrose Arch neighborhood, known more as a “city inside a city.” The community, also known as the safest place in Johannesburg, has over 100 shops and restaurants, and leisure spots comparable to bowling alleys, in line with The Sun. Security guards also patrol the realm 24/7.
Following the incident, other crew members were deployed to operate the flight that the stabbed pilot was imagined to fly back from South Africa, and passengers were reportedly unaware that the incident occurred.
the carrier said to The Sun.
Photo: British Airways
Earlier this week, the pilot was released from the hospital and traveled home to proceed his recovery. Each crew members involved were also reportedly offered additional time away from flying and counseling to process the trauma of the horrific attack.
the airline explained to The Sun.
Easy Flying reached out to British Airways for comment, but a representative was not immediately available.
Violence in South Africa
Crime rates and theft have been rising in Johannesburg as criminals have reportedly targeted tourists by breaking into cars, kidnapping people, and committing sexual assault. Crime is rated as “severe” for town’s visitors, The Sun reported.
The UK Government has even alerted travelers of terrorism to British nationals in South Africa.
the federal government said.