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Ryanair passenger recounts being sucked out mid-flight

Published 22 July 2026

A Serbian businessman who was partially sucked out of a Ryanair aircraft after a window shattered mid-flight has described the psychological and physical toll of the near-death experience, while his family and lawyer have raised questions about the crew's response. Ljubisa Karović, 61, was traveling from Thessaloniki, Greece, to Memmingen, Germany, on July 10 when the incident occurred shortly after takeoff.

Karović, who was seated in 11F, said he was awakened by a massive bang like a bomb as the window dislodged. He recounted losing consciousness immediately and being left with his head and right arm outside the aircraft as it flew at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet. He suffered severe burns and bruising on his right arm, chest, and back, a swollen head, and temporary paralysis on his right side. Doctors have ordered him to wear a neck brace for six weeks to determine if surgery is necessary.

His survival is widely attributed to his seatbelt, which remained fastened. Karović, a father of two, said he believes his survival was also a matter of fate, expressing gratitude to be alive. However, he described profound psychological trauma, stating he has hit rock bottom and...

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