British Airways crew member breaks into tears as pilot announces Queen Elizabeth II's death mid-flight
LONDON, UK: The pilot of a British Airways flight broke the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s death in a mid-flight announcement about 40 minutes before landing at Heathrow Airport in London to give the flyers “some time to reflect” on the somber news. The message was delivered towards the end of a Thursday trip from New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport, with the footage showing passengers and cabin crew shedding tears before the plane landed.
“The Queen passed away earlier today with her family by her side. I thought at the moment I should at least tell you that before you arrive at the terminal, because I know many will be very, very sad about this,” the pilot announced.
READ MORE
'Royal snub?': Family announced death of Queen Elizabeth II even before Harry could reach Balmoral
“It will give you some time to reflect as I say, we have 40 minutes to landing. We will be thinking about her family at this time. Please if any of you are particularly upset please at this time be aware that it also has affected some of my crew,” added the pilot.
Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at her home in Scotland on Thursday aged 96. Buckingham Palace announced in a statement on Thursday, "The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."
King Charles III sorrowfully addressed the citizens on Friday, a day after his “darling mama” died after over 70 years on the throne. “Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today,” the King said.
King Charles III will be officiated as King on Saturday, the palace stated. However, his actual coronation might not take place before 2023. It is also being reported that the coronation of the new King will be scaled down at Westminster Abbey. For the unversed, the crown ceremony of Queen Elizabeth II was a lavish affair costing close to $1.8 million which approximately adds up to $53 million It was also the first to be televised. It is being reported that the coronation will reflect the religious and cultural diversity of the country and will mark a significant departure from the crowning of his mother. The guests at Westminster Abbey might be limited to 2,000.
