Revamping Airport Medical Emergency Protocols: What to Expect from the Centre’s SOP Evaluation

New Delhi is taking a closer look at how medical emergencies are handled at airports. This move comes after the unfortunate death of an Air India Express pilot, Armaan Choudhary, who suffered a cardiac arrest at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). A committee set up by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will investigate whether established protocols were followed in this incident.

Choudhary fell ill shortly after landing in Delhi from Srinagar. He reportedly vomited before developing cardiac symptoms. Despite efforts to save him at a nearby hospital, he was declared dead upon arrival. This tragic event has sparked essential discussions about pilot welfare, mental health, and working conditions in the aviation industry.

The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA), representing about 800 pilots, is advocating for more humane scheduling practices and better regulations to ensure pilot safety and rest. They argue that Choudhary’s death raises serious questions about the support pilots receive in their demanding roles.

Experts also agree that reviewing current standard operating procedures (SOPs) is crucial. Dr. Tamorish Kole, an emergency medicine expert, believes that refining these protocols can improve responses to emergencies. He suggests including procedures for language interpretation, consent, and communication with next of kin.

Dr. Kole emphasizes that prompt recognition of emergencies is vital. Airport staff and bystanders should swiftly alert the Airport Emergency Control Room with a dedicated hotline. Once alerted, emergency teams should be deployed quickly for immediate action. These teams, composed of trained medical personnel, must be equipped with essential tools like defibrillators and oxygen.

The process of responding to an emergency involves assessing the situation quickly and executing CPR if necessary. A prioritization of care, known as triage, helps determine who needs immediate attention. Critical cases should be stabilized and transported via advanced life support ambulances, which maintain real-time contact with hospitals.

Continual training for airport staff in Basic Life Support (BLS) and use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) is essential. Regular drills ensure that everyone is prepared for emergencies, and incident reports should be standardized to improve response efforts.

Reviewing existing SOPs could ensure that proper care is provided during such emergencies. Currently, Medanta serves as the medical service provider at the IGIA, focusing on supporting passengers, visitors, and staff.

By enhancing SOPs and focusing on pilot health, the aviation sector can continue to strive for safer skies. Emphasizing support for pilots and efficient emergency responses will foster a healthier work environment and potentially save lives.

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