SHENYANG, Nov. 17 -- A China Southern Airlines aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in east China's Shandong Province after an elderly passenger feel ill on the flight.

The passenger -- identified by only the surnamed Wang -- fell ill shortly after flight CZ6506 left Shanghai airport at 1:08 p.m. Sunday afternoon, according to airline sources.

The plane, which was bound for Shenyang in northeast China's Liaoning Province, was forced to land in Qingdao City so Wang could be admitted to hospital.

Chief flight attendant Ding Dan said that during the flight Wang had looked noticeably uncomfortable and the crew were concerned for his wellbeing.

"He said he had no existing health issues but yet, he had chest pain and loss of breath," she said adding that she had laid him flat, and offered him hot-sugary water and oxygen.

The other passengers were also concerned about the man's condition and none objected to the emergency landing, she said.

The flight departed from Qingdao to Shenyang after refueling, and it arrived at its destination at 4:10 p.m., 40 minutes behind schedule.