What happens if there's a medical emergency on a flight?
  • 24 Jun, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

What happens if there's a medical emergency on a flight?

Now, airlines can tender to their passengers the best services so they feel comfortable and have the best experiences; therefore, they have in-flight, medical, unique, and dining services. However, sometimes, there are medical emergencies while flying. Due to this, you are looking for what happens if there is a medical emergency on a flight, so some situations or things are happening, which are located below; you may be considered it readily:

If you or someone near you experiences a medical emergency, the first step is to get help from the flight attendants. You can press the call button or notify them directly.

Flight attendants are trained to handle medical emergencies and will assess the situation. They may ask for details about the passenger's condition and medical history.

The crew has a medical kit onboard containing basic first-aid supplies and medications. They may also use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if needed.

The cabin crew will inquire about any medical professionals among the passengers. Doctors or nurses can provide valuable assistance.

The flight attendants will also contact ground-based medical professionals for guidance. This allows them to consult with experts about the best course of action.

Depending on the severity of the situation, the pilot may decide to divert the airplane to the nearest airport with appropriate medical facilities.

Upon landing, medical personnel will wait to take care of the passenger.

How do flight attendants deal with medical emergencies?

Flight attendants are prepared to handle medical emergencies on board aircraft. There are the possibilities they do:

Assess the situation: Upon notification of a medical issue, the flight attendant will quickly assess the passenger's condition. This may involve checking for consciousness, breathing, and pulse.

Provide initial assistance: Flight attendants are trained in basic first aid and CPR. They can administer oxygen, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on unconscious passengers, and provide other first-aid measures as needed.

Alert the crew and medical professionals: The flight attendant will inform the pilot and cabin crew about the situation.  Airlines may also have a system to connect with medical professionals for guidance.

Passenger announcement:  A call may be made to see if any medical professionals on board can assist.

Diverting the flight: Depending on the severity of the situation, the pilot may decide to divert the flight to the nearest airport with proper medical facilities.

Passenger comfort and reassurance: Throughout the process, the flight attendant will prioritize the passenger's well-being and comfort, keeping them calm and reassuring them of help.

How would you handle an emergency during a flight?

There are some simple steps through which you can handle an emergency during a flight, so, which are cited below, you must read it:

Before takeoff: Pay attention to the safety briefing. This will cover what to do in an emergency, including locating exits and life jackets.

Stay calm: If an emergency happens, the most important thing is to stay calm and follow the flight crew's instructions.  They are highly trained in handling emergencies.

Listen to instructions: The cabin crew will give clear instructions on what to do. Listen carefully and follow them promptly.

Brace for impact: If there's an emergency landing, the crew will tell you to brace for impact. This means placing your head on your tray table, arms wrapped around your head, and hands clasped together.

Evacuate quickly: If there's an evacuation, move carefully to the nearest exit and follow the crew's instructions.  Once outside, move away from the aircraft to a safe distance.

Do planes carry oxygen for medical emergencies?

Yes, airplanes do carry oxygen for medical emergencies. This oxygen is for immediate use when someone on board has difficulty breathing. The amount of oxygen they take is for emergency use only, not for continuous use by passengers who require supplemental oxygen due to a medical condition.

Can a heart patient fly on a plane?

Usually, a person with heart disease can fly on a plane, but there are some essential things to consider first. It is always best to talk to your doctor before flying, especially if you have any of the following conditions that are cited below read it:

Uncontrolled angina (chest pain)

Uncontrolled heart failure

Uncontrolled arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)

Recent heart attack or surgery (within the past two weeks)

Your doctor can help you decide if flying is safe and give you specific minimizing advice.