Sometimes we don't even think about the value of something until that decisive or crucial moment. For example, people often underestimate old coins and don't know their true value until they ask themselves a question like “how much is a 1964 silver quarter worth?”. Only then do they begin to search for information, weigh the details, and realize the true value of the find.
Similarly, when we are flying, we rarely think about what to do in an emergency until someone next to us becomes ill. That is when every second becomes precious, and a person's well-being may depend on our actions. So today we will discuss how to help a loved one in case of sudden health problems on board, what steps to take before the medics arrive and how to cope with
First Actions to Implement
Assess the Situation
Time to act: within the first few seconds
Medical emergencies in flight develop rapidly, and the first moments are crucial. Your loved one may have simply stood up too quickly, causing momentary dizziness, or they may have something far worse. Quick but calm action can make a huge difference.
What to do first? Begin with checking to see if they are responding. Talk to them in a firm but soothing tone: “Can you hear me?” or “Are you all right?”. If their response is slow, slurred or confused, pay attention - this may be a sign of a medical problem that requires immediate intervention.
Then notice visible signs of distress. Pale or clammy skin, excessive sweating, or bluish lips may indicate poor circulation. If the person is breathing irregularly or gasping for breath, prompt intervention is necessary. If the person suddenly loses consciousness, check for injuries - they may have hit their head or have an undiagnosed illness prior to landing.
What should you avoid? Remember that panic will only make the situation worse. Try not to shake the person violently - rough movements can aggravate an underlying problem. If the person is semi-conscious, do not try to give them water - this can lead to choking. Finally, never assume that they are just “snap out of it”. Even seemingly minor symptoms can indicate a more serious condition, and on an airplane you don't have the option of going to the hospital immediately.
Alert the Crew
Time to act: within 5-15 seconds
Once you determine the situation is serious, it’s time to bring in professional help. Flight attendants are trained for medical emergencies and can summon additional assistance if needed.
Are you wondering how to get immediate help? Just press the call button without hesitation. If no one responds within seconds, get up and call for help. When the crew arrives, be clear and direct: “My husband just lost consciousness”; “She’s having trouble breathing’; “He’s feeling very dizzy and doesn’t look well.”
If the situation is critical, the crew may ask if there is a medical professional on board. Many airlines also have the ability to contact ground-based emergency services for guidance.
But also there are also common mistakes you should avoid, so never assume someone else has already called for help. Taking initiative ensures faster response times. Also, don’t downplay the symptoms - even if your loved one seems to be improving, they should still be properly assessed.
Some studies show that medical incidents occur on approximately one in every 604 flights, with fainting, breathing issues, and heart-related symptoms being the most common. Thus, your early intervention can significantly increase survival rates.
Provide Basic Physical Assistance
Time to act: within 1-2 Minutes
While waiting for the flight crew to bring medical supplies or assistance, there are several things you can do to stabilize your loved one.
What to Do
If they are unconscious but still breathing, gently lay them on their back and slightly elevate their legs to encourage better circulation. Then loose any tight clothing, especially around the neck and waist, to prevent additional breathing restrictions. If their breathing is weak or irregular, request supplemental oxygen from the crew and help them use it correctly.
What not to Do
Remember and never administer medications without a licensed medical professional present. If your loved one has a pre-existing medical condition and is taking prescribed medications, only assist if they are conscious and able to take them on their own. Also, do not attempt to do CPR unless breathing has completely stopped and you are unsure of your training. In some cases, unnecessary chest compressions can do more harm than good.
Keeping Calm and Taking Action: Your Role in an In-Flight Emergency
A sudden medical emergency at 10 thousand feet can feel overwhelming. The hum of the engines, the confined space and your understanding that immediate hospital care is out of reach - it is easy to panic. But staying calm and focusing on what you can do is the best way to help your loved one in distress.
Offer Psychological Support
The mind is a powerful thing. Anxiety can make breathing issues worse, escalate heart rate, and even trigger additional symptoms - that is why emotional help is just as important as physical first aid.
How can you keep your loved one calm? Speak in a steady, soothing tone and say things like, “I’m right here. Help is coming.” Keep your voice low and control signals to them (and those around you) that the situation is being handled. Then you may help them regulate their breathing with simple instructions: “Breathe in slowly through your nose… hold… now exhale through your mouth.” This technique works wonders for panic attacks and respiratory distress. Finally, try to find and use distractions and shift focus to distress. If they have a hobby - say, coin collecting - talk about it. Ask them if they’ve ever found a rare coin or used a Coin ID Scanner to identify a valuable piece. Every small mental escape can work as a calming strategy.
Interesting fact: Studies show that engaging in a simple mental task, like recalling a favorite memory, can reduce stress levels by up to 40% in high-pressure situations.
Using Available Medical Resources on the Plane
Flight attendants may not be doctors, but they have access to important medical equipment and can contact professionals on the ground for advice.
Medical resource | Purpose | Who can use it? |
First aid kit | Basic care for minor injuries and discomfort | Flight attendants and passengers |
Oxygen mask | Assists breathing during respiratory distress | Flight attendants |
Automated defibrillator (AED) | Used for cardiac emergencies | Trained personnel |
Epinephrine injection | Emergency response to allergic reactions | Flight crew or medical volunteer |
Telemedicine services | Allows crew to consult with doctors on the ground | Airline medical team |
If your loved one is struggling, don’t hesitate to ask the flight crew what medical tools are available - many passengers are unaware of just how well-equipped airplanes actually are.
When is an emergency landing necessary? Not all medical events require an unscheduled landing, but some do. If symptoms worsen - unconsciousness persists, breathing is severely impaired, or chest pain becomes extreme - the captain may need to divert the flight. In some cases flight attendants will typically consult ground-based doctors before making a final call. However, if you believe the situation is dire, be clear and firm in communicating this to the crew. Your input can change the situation.
From Panic to Decision
When suddenly fearful, it is important not to panic, but to act with confidence and understanding. Even if the situation may seem hopeless, you need to remember that you are the one who can help, and due to realizing it you can really save your loved one. Most importantly, do not lose your temper, because it is up to you to get help quickly and effectively.