Air carrier flight crew reported an 'acetone' type odor during cruise in the passenger cabin which resulted in multiple reports of physiological symptoms. With no definitive source of the odor the flight crew requested special handling to a diversion airport where a safe landing was executed.
Synopsis
Air carrier flight crew reported an 'acetone' type odor during cruise in the passenger cabin which resulted in multiple reports of physiological symptoms. With no definitive source of the odor the flight crew requested special handling to a diversion airport where a safe landing was executed.
Narrative
Very light chemical smell detected on the ground; prior to departure. Apparent alcohol or hand sanitizer type. After discussion with Crew; we agreed to proceed with flight; as it seemed to fade and present no concern. There was a NOTAC for HAZMAT for battery transport; but this didn't seem to fit with the smell detected. During cruise; Flight Attendants noted a much stronger acetone" type of smell; mid cabin to aft. A passenger became ill; complaining of headache and dizziness. A phone patch with medical services was initiated. During this time the C Flight Attendant also began to experience symptoms of headache and nausea. After consulting with medical services; we were told that due to multiple persons being affected; a diversion was advisable. We elected to divert. After an initial turn towards ZZZ; Dispatch advised that ZZZ1 would be a better divert location for manning and EMT capabilities. We initiated a turn towards ZZZ1 and coordinated with Dispatch for Medical Personnel to meet the aircraft. We [requested priority handling] as well. As the divert continued; we were informed by the Flight Attendants that the C F/A was vomiting in the Lavatory. We relayed all of the above info to Dispatch and coordinated for a gate. No smell was noted on the flight deck so no Emergency Checklists were deemed necessary. This may have been an error; and perhaps the smoke or fumes checklist would have been advisable; under an abundance of caution. Arrival to ZZZ1 was uneventful. EMT met the Aircraft at the gate and serviced the ill Passenger and Flight Attendants. O2 bottles were used during the flight for the Passenger and F/A."
Second reporter narrative
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.