In-Flight Medical Events on Commercial Airline Flights

What are the characteristics of in-flight medical events on commercial airline flights and the factors associated with aircraft diversion, hospital transport, and in-flight mortality?In this cohort study of 77 790 in-flight medical events reported by 84 airlines, the overall incidence was 39 per 1 million enplanements, and aircraft diversion occurred in 1.7% of cases, most often for neurologic and cardiac emergencies. Physician volunteer involvement was associated with increased likelihood of diversion.The findings suggest that in-flight medical events are more common than previously estimated and have important operational and clinical implications for commercial aviation and emergency response planning.

Corresponding Author: Alexandre T. Rotta, MD, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2301 Erwin Rd, DUMC 3046, Durham, NC 27710 (alex.rotta@duke.edu).

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