Air sickness onboard is a frequent, albeit unpredictable, challenge for flight attendants. Their initial response involves a swift assessment of the passenger’s condition, offering basic first aid like oxygen, pain relievers (if available and appropriate), and managing any immediate discomfort. This often involves repositioning the passenger for better breathing or comfort.
Serious illness triggers a multi-pronged response. The crew will immediately broadcast a call for any medical professionals among the passengers. This is surprisingly effective; many flights have doctors, nurses, or paramedics onboard. Their expertise significantly increases the chances of stabilizing the patient before landing.
Simultaneously, they will contact air traffic control, relaying the situation and requesting a medical team to meet the plane upon arrival at the nearest suitable airport. This is a critical step, as it allows ground crews to prepare for a potentially urgent medical situation. The choice of diversion airport depends on several factors: severity of the illness, proximity of appropriately equipped hospitals, and weather conditions.
- Diversion protocols: While diverting a flight is a significant disruption, passenger safety is paramount. The decision rests on the flight captain in consultation with the medical professional (onboard or ground-based) and air traffic control.
- Onboard medical kits: Aircraft carry comprehensive medical kits, but their contents are surprisingly limited by international regulations, focusing mainly on basic first aid supplies and emergency medications. They’re not a substitute for proper medical care.
- Passenger responsibility: Passengers with pre-existing medical conditions should always inform their airline beforehand and carry any necessary medication and supporting documentation. This information is crucial for quick and appropriate response from the crew.
Experienced travelers know that unpredictable events can occur, emphasizing the importance of packing any essential medication, informing the airline of any health concerns, and remaining calm in emergency situations. The in-flight medical response is a carefully choreographed procedure, often relying on the combined efforts of trained professionals and resourceful passengers.
What to do if a passenger becomes ill on a flight?
Dealing with a sick passenger mid-flight can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to do can alleviate anxiety. While it’s ideal that unwell individuals wouldn’t board in the first place (due to pre-existing conditions), sometimes illness strikes unexpectedly.
Your First Action: Alert the Cabin Crew Immediately inform a flight attendant. They are trained to handle medical emergencies and will assess the situation. Don’t attempt self-diagnosis or treatment.
Requesting a Seat Change: If you’re near the ill passenger and uncomfortable, politely request a seat change. The crew will do their best to accommodate you, considering safety and available seating. Keep in mind that crew prioritizes the well-being of the ill passenger and overall flight safety, so a move isn’t guaranteed.
The Crew’s Role: Flight attendants have a medical kit onboard with basic supplies. They’ll provide first aid and monitor the passenger’s condition. In severe cases requiring immediate medical attention, they’ll determine the necessity of an emergency landing – a significant decision impacting flight schedule and passenger experience, but a crucial one for the sick passenger’s health.
Things to Consider Before Your Flight:
- Pre-existing Conditions: If you have a medical condition that could worsen during flight, consult your doctor beforehand. They can advise on necessary precautions and medications.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance often covers medical emergencies, including those occurring mid-flight.
- Medications: Always pack sufficient medication for your journey, keeping it easily accessible in your carry-on luggage.
What if you become ill?
- Inform a flight attendant as soon as possible.
- Be honest about your symptoms.
- Follow the crew’s instructions carefully.
Important Note: While requesting a seat change is understandable, remember the crew’s primary focus is on the sick passenger’s safety and well-being. Cooperation and understanding are key in these situations.
Why do flight attendants sit on their hands?
The sight of flight attendants sitting on their hands during takeoff and landing often sparks curiosity. It’s not a quirky habit; it’s a crucial safety precaution, honed over decades of experience and refined across countless flights in diverse environments – from the bustling airports of Tokyo to the remote airstrips of the Andes. This seemingly simple act is a proactive measure to minimize injuries in the event of unexpected turbulence or, more critically, an emergency landing or accident.
Why this specific posture? It’s about minimizing the impact of sudden deceleration. During a crash, unsecured objects, including people, become projectiles. By keeping their hands tucked in and close to their bodies, flight attendants significantly reduce the risk of broken bones, lacerations, or other injuries from impacts with overhead bins, seats, or even other passengers.
Beyond hand placement, pre-flight and in-flight procedures are equally critical:
- Pre-flight briefings: These briefings, often overlooked by passengers, cover a range of emergency procedures, tailored to the specific aircraft and route. Flight attendants across the globe are rigorously trained in accident prevention and response, preparing them for diverse situations.
- In-flight safety demonstrations: While seemingly routine, these demonstrations emphasize essential safety protocols, including proper seatbelt usage and emergency exit procedures. Their effectiveness is maximized by the crew’s consistent adherence to these very same rules.
The global perspective: International flight regulations and training standards ensure a unified approach to safety, regardless of the airline or destination. From the meticulously planned evacuations practiced in rigorous simulations to the subtle yet important act of sitting on one’s hands, every aspect is carefully considered to protect both passengers and crew. This globally consistent approach is crucial in ensuring safety across diverse operational conditions.
The bottom line: That seemingly small act is part of a larger, carefully orchestrated safety system, the result of years of experience, rigorous training, and international collaboration—all aimed at maximizing passenger and crew well-being in all scenarios.
What happens if you become ill on a flight?
Falling ill mid-flight? Don’t panic. The cabin crew will assess the situation. If they deem it serious and there’s no doctor onboard – which is common on most flights – they’ll contact a medical call center. Think of it as a rapid-response team for the skies. A doctor on the ground will then guide them, providing instructions over the comms. They’ll dictate the treatment plan, maybe suggesting oxygen, basic first aid, or other measures based on the symptoms. It’s crucial to remember that their advice is paramount.
Pro-tip for adventurous travelers: Before any long-haul flight, especially to remote areas, consider informing your airline about any pre-existing conditions. Packing a small, personalized first-aid kit with your regular medications is also a smart move. It’s always better to be prepared for unexpected medical situations, however unlikely they might seem.
Another tip: While airline medical kits exist, they’re usually quite basic. Don’t rely solely on them; your own personal kit can be a lifesaver. Knowing basic first aid is a fantastic life skill, especially useful for solo travelers or when venturing off the beaten path.
