Is There a Doctor on-Board?: Medical Liability during in-Flight Emergencies

Abstract

Provision of emergency medical care to passengers during flights on commercial aircraft is an issue which concerns many physicians. As world population ages and air travel increases, the number of medical events on board aircrafts is also expected to increase. This paper discusses the liability of the physician-passenger who volunteers and renders care as well as advises the crew, on certain actions. Complex medico-legal issues will be mentioned and there will be a brief discussion on the in-flight environment and unscheduled landings.