Tragedy in the Skies: Mum-of-Three Air Hostess, 57, Collapses and Dies Mid-Flight After Pushing Through to Get Home to Her Kids

A devastating incident unfolded at Reggio Calabria Airport, Italy, when a 57-year-old flight attendant, Gabriella Cario, tragically collapsed and died in front of passengers as they boarded the plane. Cario, a mother of three who worked for ITA Airways, had been feeling unwell before the flight on Saturday afternoon but dismissed her symptoms as a mere “fainting spell.”

Cario, eager to return home to her husband and sons, chose not to seek medical attention despite her illness. However, as she boarded the plane, she collapsed, leaving passengers and colleagues in shock. Within minutes, paramedics were called to the aircraft, and all passengers were disembarked while emergency teams attempted to revive her. Sadly, despite their efforts, Cario passed away on the spot, told The Sun.

The tragic incident occurred at the boarding gate of ITA Airways flight 1156, which was bound for Rome Fiumicino. Following her sudden death, the flight was postponed until later that evening, with other flights also experiencing delays.

Originally from Naples, Cario lived in Sabaudia, near Latina, and worked both domestic and international routes out of Rome. She was remembered as a dedicated employee and a bright presence among her colleagues. The exact cause of her death remains unknown, with early reports only citing a “sudden illness.”

Alberto Mosca, the mayor of Sabaudia, paid tribute to Cario, stating, “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.” The heartbreaking incident has left the aviation community and passengers shaken, as Cario’s unexpected passing highlights the fragility of life.