Poursuites judiciaires en France contre la Royal Air Maroc pour non-assistance à personne en danger
Summary of the Incident Involving Royal Air Maroc
Background of the Case
Marie Diop, the daughter of a Franco-Senegalese woman who died while traveling on Royal Air Maroc (RAM), is launching a civil lawsuit against the airline for alleged negligence during her mother’s medical emergency. Her mother, Marie-Thérèse, passed away during a layover in Casablanca en route to Dakar, leading to calls for accountability.
Description of Events
Marie-Thérèse, 68, was traveling from Montpellier, France, to Dakar with a stopover in Casablanca. She had a known history of cardiac issues and was eager to visit her deceased son’s grave. Despite her deteriorating condition, she experienced neglect during her time on the plane. Witnesses reported that she boarded the flight visibly distressed, relying on the assistance of passengers and ultimately a physician on board.
Once aboard, Marie-Thérèse became unresponsive within a short time. Passengers attempted to alert the flight crew about her state; however, their concerns were largely ignored. It took around 45 minutes before any significant action was taken. During this interval, a doctor on board provided oxygen, but upon inspection, he concluded that Marie-Thérèse had already died.
Following the flight’s landing, local emergency services confirmed her death. Diop expressed profound anguish upon receiving the news, asserting that her mother’s life could have been saved had proper assistance been rendered.
Claims of Discrimination
Marie Diop alleges that this incident is reflective of long-standing discriminatory practices within RAM against passengers of color. Reports indicate that there have been numerous complaints about RAM’s treatment of African travelers, characterized by indifference and neglect compared to other passengers.
According to an attorney representing Diop, the airline staff’s negligence was not only a failure to respond but indicative of a broader pattern of dismissive attitudes toward individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Desire for Accountability
By bringing her case to light, Diop seeks more than just an apology. She demands accountability and aims to prevent similar tragedies in the future. In her view, there must be systemic changes to ensure that all passengers, particularly marginalized ones, receive equal care and consideration during flights.
Media reports have corroborated that many African travelers have reported experiences of neglect while flying with RAM. This includes accounts of staff failing to provide necessary assistance or care during medical emergencies.
Conclusion
Marie Diop’s decision to pursue legal action highlights deep-seated issues surrounding racial bias and inadequate emergency responses in the aviation industry. This tragic incident serves as a call to reevaluate how airlines respond to medical emergencies and how passengers of color are treated, underscoring the need for enhanced staff training and a commitment to equitable treatment for all travelers.
