Hong Kong to investigate loss of eyesight by Cathy Pacific captains

The Hong Kong aviation authority announced on Tuesday that it is gathering evidence for its investigation into two incidents involving Cathay Pacific Airways' captains temporarily losing their eyesight during a flight.

The first incident took place on January 26, when the captain suddenly lost their eyesight during a flight from Hong Kong to Sapporo. Control of the Boeing 777, which was carrying 348 passengers and 16 crew members, was handed over to the co-pilot.

A file picture shows Cathay Pacific planes at Hong Kong International Airport in Hong Kong, China. [Photo: IC]

The second incident happened 26 days later, when the captain of an Airbus 350 carrying 270 passengers from Perth to Hong Kong was forced to hand over control to the co-pilot after he experienced a loss of vision and an asthma attack.

Both planes landed safely and the eyesight of the two experienced captains recovered.

According to a report by the People's Daily, the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department said their investigation into the cause of the incidents is expected to last a year.

Cathay Pacific is said to be fully cooperating with the investigation.