Heroes praised for ‘support and compassion' after man dies mid-flight on trip from Malaga to Glasgow

Two Rangers fans have been thanked for their “support and compassion” after a man died mid-air during a flight to Glasgow.

A Jet2 plane that left Malaga for Glasgow Airport at around 11.55am on Thursday, May 5, had to declare a mid-flight emergency after a passenger “suddenly” died.

The flight, which was scheduled to land at Glasgow Airport at 2.25pm, was forced to land at Nantes Atlantique Airport in France just after 12.20pm.

The family of the passenger sought out “two Rangers fans” on social media, after they provided support during the incident – including covering the man from the view of other passengers.

They wrote: “I am trying to identify two Rangers fans who were diverted to France going from Malaga to Glasgow on May 5.

“I would like to try and find these two men as my father passed away on flight and they covered him with their flag to give him respect and dignity.”

The family were put in touch with Kevin Thom and Jimmy Gow, who paid tribute to the cabin crew aboard the flight.

Kevin said: “What Jimmy and I did on that flight was nothing more than I would like to think someone would have done for me in a similar situation.

“What we did was nothing in comparison to what the crew did.

“A midwife was also onboard, and she helped the crew to try and resuscitate the poor guy, so she should get the credit she deserves.

“They really were truly amazing in their efforts to save him and should receive all the praise for their efforts, not me and Jimmy.

“I am in direct contact with the family as a result of the shout out on social media and would prefer to leave it at that.”

After being put into contact, the family shared a thank you message on social media page ‘no1seems2care’, which hailed the “comfort and support” that the men provided aboard the flight.

The message read: “We would like to take this opportunity to personally thank Kevin Thom and Jimmy Gow for their actions during a flight returning to Glasgow on May 5, 2022.

“A gentleman, travelling with his brother, suddenly passed away during this flight and Kevin and Jimmy displayed outstanding compassion and support throughout this tragic incident.

“In addition to providing support and comfort to the passenger’s brother they protected the dignity of the gentleman who passed away covering him from the view of other passengers.

“Thank you, Kevin and Jimmy.

“It was a sudden and tragic incident, but the gentleman’s family appreciate, respect, and take comfort from your involvement.

“Respect to both of you.”

A Jet2.com spokesperson, said: “Flight LS134 from Malaga to Glasgow diverted to Nantes last week due to a customer requiring urgent medical attention.

“Regrettably, we can confirm that the customer sadly passed away.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the customer’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”