Irfan Ali Mirza, a 45-year-old British Airways flight attendant and father of three, was found dead in his San Francisco hotel room during a layover, per the Daily Mail. Mirza arrived from London Heathrow on Tuesday for a two-day stopover. He failed to report for his Thursday flight, alarming colleagues. Hotel staff entered his room and discovered him deceased in bed.
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The San Francisco Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Mirza's identity to the Daily Mail. Police reported no signs of foul play. Meanwhile, the medical examiner took the body for further examination. Authorities have not released the cause of death.
Family and Colleagues Mourn a Beloved Figure
Mirza's family shared their grief on social media. His brother Kamran Mirza described the devastating loss, noting Irfan left behind his wife, three young children -- including a 1-year-old -- parents, and three siblings.
"It's totally heartbreaking," Kamran wrote, recalling their shared June birthdays. He thanked British Airways staff for their support and asked for prayers.
Rizzy Mirza, Irfan's youngest brother, found solace in colleagues' tributes. "It really has cut the family deep," he wrote. Also, sister Amber cherished their close bond and childhood memories, saying, "His memory lives on forever in our hearts."
Colleagues honored Mirza's 20-year career with heartfelt memories. Bailey Patter recalled a joyful Hong Kong flight, calling him "an amazing, kind soul." Danielle Crane praised his humor, citing a fun Nassau trip. Sarah Atkinson described him as a "darling man with the kindest heart," while Dutchie Wallis noted his "expansive smile" and "pure sunshine." Karen Nelson treasured a recent Bologna layover, where they explored and dined together.
Flight Disruptions and Airline Response
The discovery canceled British Airways flight BA 284 from San Francisco to London on April 17. Crew members, overwhelmed by grief, could not fly, the Daily Mail reported.
Pilots returned to the hotel to support colleagues, while passengers received accommodations and rebooked flights. At the time, they were not informed of the reason. The return flight, BA 285, from London to San Francisco, was canceled the next day.
British Airways offered condolences: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of our colleague at this difficult time," a statement read.
The Airbus A380-800 flight typically carries up to 470 passengers.
