Use of Commercial Aircraft for Emergency Patient Transport

Abstract

Evacuating patients aboard scheduled commercial aircraft is both feasible and cost effective; this mode of transfer should be considered when immediate transfer is unnecessary and other means of evacuation is not possible. Compared to specialized fixed-wing air ambulances, commercial aircrafts offer improved flight stability and allow long-haul flights without refueling stops at a minimum of half the cost [1]. Disadvantages include nonflexible schedules, uncertain availability of seats on flights, and restrictions of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) rules that must be within the internal regulations of each airline [2]. Importantly, the repatriation should not impact the flight’s schedule nor expose other passengers to hazards, especially any infectious risks [3]. This chapter describes the various arrangements available on commercial airliners in terms of patient installation and additional oxygen administration and provides notice on medical clearance. The use of commercial airliners for the simultaneous transport of multiple patients is also described.