TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taoyuan Flight Attendants Union on Monday urged EVA Air to be more compassionate toward crew members’ health conditions, following the recent death of an EVA Air flight attendant, who was hospitalized after suddenly falling ill.

In a Facebook post, the union called for a sick leave policy that allows flight attendants to focus on recovery without fear of repercussions.

Although EVA Air does not require crew members to work while sick, the airline’s strict leave policy remains a concern, the union said. “Taking sick leave can affect eligibility for preferred flight assignments and shift adjustments, disrupting future schedules and personal routines,” it said.

Being a flight attendant involves frequent overnight shifts, physical exhaustion, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which can weaken the immune system or worsen underlying health problems, the union said.

It also called on EVA Air to investigate the circumstances surrounding the flight attendant’s death, specifically, whether they faced difficulties or denial of assistance while seeking help during their illness.