What Happens When Someone Dies on a Plane

If you’ve traveled by air, odds are that you’ve heard a flight attendant ask, “Is there A Doctor On Board?” With millions of passengers boarding flights every day, it’s inevitable that, occasionally, someone might pass away while in the air. While it’s not a pleasant topic to dwell on, understanding what happens when someone dies on a plane can help alleviate some of the uncertainty and anxiety surrounding such situations.

While the death of a passenger during a flight is a rare occurrence, airlines and their crew members need to be prepared to handle such situations with professionalism, dignity, and compassion. By following established protocols and procedures, airlines can ensure that the needs of both the deceased passenger and their fellow travelers are met with care and respect. For passengers, understanding what happens when someone dies on a plane can help alleviate some of the anxiety and uncertainty associated with air travel, allowing them to fly with confidence and peace of mind.

The Initial Response

When a passenger is suspected to have passed away during a flight, the flight attendants and crew are trained to respond promptly and professionally. Their primary concern is the well-being of all passengers on board, as well as maintaining order and calmness in the cabin. If a passenger appears to be in distress or unconscious, flight attendants will assess the situation and administer first aid if necessary.

Confirming the Death

If a passenger is unresponsive and shows no signs of life, the flight crew will attempt to confirm the person’s death. This may involve checking for vital signs such as a pulse or breathing, as well as attempting to rouse the individual. However, if it’s clear that the passenger has passed away, the crew will take appropriate action.

Informing the Authorities

The next step is to notify the flight deck and inform the captain of the situation. The captain will then decide whether to continue the flight or divert to the nearest suitable airport. Factors such as the passenger’s health condition, the flight’s proximity to its destination, and logistical considerations will influence this decision.

Handling the Body

Once it’s determined that a passenger has passed away, the crew will move the body to a designated area, typically at the rear of the aircraft. Depending on available space and the specific circumstances, the body may be secured in a seat or placed on the floor. Flight attendants will then discreetly cover the deceased with a blanket or other suitable covering to maintain dignity and respect.

Notifying Next of Kin

After securing the body, the flight crew will work with the airline’s operations team to contact the deceased passenger’s next of kin. This process can be challenging, especially if the passenger’s contact information is not readily available. Airlines have protocols in place for handling such situations and will coordinate with ground staff to ensure that the family is informed as soon as possible.

Dealing with Passengers’ Reactions

The death of a fellow passenger can be distressing for those onboard, and the flight crew is trained to handle passengers’ reactions with sensitivity and compassion. Depending on the circumstances, the captain may make an announcement to inform passengers of what has occurred and reassure them that the situation is being managed appropriately.

Continuing the Flight

In most cases, flights will continue to their destination after a passenger has passed away, especially if the flight is over the ocean or in a remote area where diverting is not feasible. However, if the circumstances warrant it, such as if medical assistance is required or if the family requests it, the captain may choose to divert to the nearest airport.

Arrangements Upon Landing

Upon landing, the airline’s ground staff will coordinate with local authorities to handle the situation. This may involve arranging for medical personnel to meet the aircraft, as well as facilitating the removal of the deceased passenger’s body from the aircraft. Depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding the death, an autopsy may be required.