A routine flight turned into a medical emergency when a man with a severe nut allergy suffered a life threatening allergic reaction mid air. Quick action by the cabin crew and a fellow passenger helped save his life during the dramatic incident aboard a Virgin Australia flight bound for Newman in Western Australia.
On January 4, 2026, Andrew Rawle was flying when he suddenly felt his throat tighten and his skin turn red, according to Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). These are classic warning signs of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can block breathing and become fatal within minutes. Rawle had eaten only cheese and crackers that he believed were safe, but his body reacted violently.
Realizing what was happening, Rawle rushed to get his EpiPen from his bag. He asked the flight crew if he could move to the back of the plane so he could inject himself safely. By this time, he could barely speak. He injected the adrenaline into his leg, which helped open his airway and allowed him to breathe again.
About 20 minutes later, Rawle began to struggle again. The effects of the first EpiPen were wearing off and his throat started to tighten once more. The cabin crew gave him oxygen and searched the aircraft’s medical kit for another dose of adrenaline. To their shock, the kit did not contain a spare EpiPen.
With Rawle’s condition worsening, the crew made an urgent announcement asking if any passenger onboard had an EpiPen. At this moment, a woman stepped forward and offered her own emergency injector.
Rawle used the second EpiPen, which once again stabilized him and prevented the reaction from becoming fatal.
While the second dose took effect, the pilots sped up the aircraft so they could reach Newman Airport as quickly as possible. An ambulance was waiting on the runway when the plane landed. Paramedics immediately gave Rawle further treatment, including another dose of adrenaline, before taking him to hospital for monitoring.
Rawle later said he believes he might not have survived without the kindness of the fellow passenger who shared her medication. He also praised the cabin crew for acting fast under pressure.
He suspects his reaction may have been caused by touching a contaminated surface, possibly a safety card or tray table, showing how even trace amounts of allergens can trigger a medical emergency.
Reference:
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Anaphylaxis: Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Last modified 2024. Accessed January 12, 2026. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anaphylaxis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351468
(Rh/ARC)
