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Chaos erupted onboard a Korean Air flight bound for Taiwan after a sudden malfunction in the plane’s cabin pressurisation system left passengers suffering from nosebleeds and ear pain.

According to a report by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency, on Saturday, Korean Air Flight KE189 rapidly descended from over 30,000 feet to around 9,000 feet, causing intense discomfort and triggering health problems for some passengers.

The precipitous drop in altitude reportedly caused at least two flyers to experience nosebleeds, while 15 others complained of ear pain and hyperventilation. Although there were no reports of serious injuries, 13 people were taken to a hospital for medical attention.

A Taiwanese passenger recounted the harrowing experience on social media, describing how the plane lurched downwards shortly after meal service, and the cabin was rocked by turbulence. She likened the experience to the intense G-force of a rollercoaster.

As per a report by Dimsum Daily, the passenger reported suffering severe ear and head pain, along with dizziness, while children on board were left frightened and crying.

The pilot made the decision to turn the aircraft around and made an emergency landing at Incheon International Airport.

Korean Air has apologised for the incident and launched an investigation into the cause of the malfunction and assured passengers that all necessary maintenance measures will be taken.

The rescheduled flight reportedly departed at 10:30 am on Sunday, around 19 hours later than originally planned.