EXPLAINER: What happens when there’s a medical emergency midair

Diverting a flight is a big decision which involves coordination with air traffic control.

by FELIX KIPKEMOI

News27 May 2025 - 14:05

*Flight attendants attend to a passenger midair/COURTESY*

What would you do if someone suddenly collapsed next to you at 35,000 feet in the sky?

With no hospital in sight and limited medical resources on board, a medical emergency during a flight can quickly turn tense, especially on long-haul international routes.

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