Proper Emergency Procedures for a Sick or Injured Passenger Post-Takeoff

When faced with a medical emergency during an airline flight, the crew must handle the situation efficiently and carefully. The proper sequence of actions can include turning back, continuing to the nearest airport, ensuring a cooling down period for the brakes, and handover procedures for baggage. Understanding these procedures and following a specific protocol can significantly impact the safety and well-being of all on board.

Understanding the Specific Aspects of an Emergency Landing

Upon landing, the sick or injured passenger is handed over to medical staff on the ground, and a brief report is filed. However, several key aspects must be considered:

The Importance of Cooling Time for the Aircraft Brakes

Airplanes, especially modern commercial aircraft, operate with a cooling down period for the brakes as specified in the aircraft manuals. This is crucial to ensure the brakes do not overheat, which can affect their performance on future landings.

Handover of Checked-In Baggage and Companions

The checked-in baggage and any companions who would debark at the same airport require responsible handover procedures. This can be handled by the companions, if they are staying, or by available airline staff, security personnel, or staff from other airlines.

Necessity of Refueling

The emergency descent and climb-out may require refueling, as it often results in increased fuel consumption. This is particularly important if the weight of the aircraft is already at maximum landing limits.

Selecting the Nearest Runway with Medical Facilities

The preferred landing destination is the nearest runway that also offers the nearest medical facility. This may be in front of or behind the current position of the aircraft, but the top priority is to get there as quickly as possible.

Real-life Examples of Medical Emergencies on Board

Here are a few real-life scenarios and their respective responses:

Example 1: Departing LGA for DEN with Weather Constraints

Scenario: A heart attack occurs on a flight from LGA (LaGuardia) to DEN (Denver) with stormy weather and strong gusts. Additional fuel dumping is not an option due to aircraft weight constraints.

Response: Continue the departure, declare a medical emergency, contact the company and aviation medical people, and consider diverting to an adequate airfield along the way.

Example 2: Flight from LAX to ATL with a Patient in Diabetic Shock

Scenario: A passenger becomes unconscious and unresponsive, and a nurse and paramedic offer assistance.

Response: Declare a medical emergency, plan an immediate divert to Las Vegas, and contact the company with medical advice and weather details.

Example 3: Depature from Tampa to Miami with a Breathing Issue

Scenario: A passenger is having breathing difficulties and turning blue immediately after takeoff.

Response: Switch back to tower frequency, declare an emergency, and request a left closed traffic circle to return to the gate.

Example 4: Miscellaneous Situations

Scenarios on final approach or during taxiing also require quick action to get to or return to the gate as quickly as possible.

Key takeaways from the scenarios demonstrate the variability in responses based on weather, time, and runway conditions. Quick data collection, planning, and execution are crucial in handling such emergencies effectively.