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The recent mid-air emergency on Air India flight AI504 has brought renewed attention to the quality and preparedness of in-flight emergency medical kits. Dr. Amit Gupta, head of the IDF School of Diabetes, was among the passengers and stepped forward to help during the incident. However, he quickly discovered that some basic medical equipment was missing, tools that he says could have made the difference in saving lives.
No pulse oximeter, glucose meter, or ECG available.
After helping to manage the situation, Dr. Gupta shared his experience on social media.
“Just responded to a medical emergency on Air India flight AI504! The crew’s quick response was commendable. Noticed that the medical kit did not include a pulse oximeter, glucose meter, or portable ECG,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He called on the airline to consider including these life-saving devices in its standard on-board kits.
The doctor called for upgrading the in-flight emergency medical kits
In a follow-up message, Dr. Gupta made a public recommendation: "Recommendation: Upgrade #AirIndia medical kits with pulse oximeters, glucose meters & portable ECGs. These tools can help docs like me make timely diagnoses & interventions, potentially saving lives at 30,000 ft!
Air India responded: The equipment is available on request
Air India acknowledged the doctor’s concern and clarified that such equipment can be made available if passengers submit medical information (MEDA) documents before the flight.
“Kindly note that the medical equipment mentioned are made available when the MEDA documents are duly submitted before the departure of the flight as per the passenger's request and reviewing the documents provided. However, your feedback has been duly noted and will be shared internally,” the airline said in a statement.
The doctor reiterated the need for standard equipment
Appreciating the response, Dr. Gupta stressed that essential equipment should be included by default, not dependent on passengers’ prior documentation.
“Thank you for your response. However, I strongly believe that essential medical equipment like pulse oximeters, glucose meters, and portable ECGs should be a standard part of the medical kit on board, rather than requiring prior documentation and passenger request. This would enable timely and effective medical response in emergency situations,” he said.
He asked Air India to take a good look at its in-flight medical policy so that they are ready for any unexpected emergencies.
Why this is important: Saving lives at 30,000 feet
Medical emergencies can pop up during flights without warning. A well-stocked medical kit can help doctors on board give quick and proper care when it really matters. As airlines aim to boost passenger safety, Dr. Gupta’s experiences could be a push for changes across the industry.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal Arshad/MSM)
