By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
An Ibom Air flight from Abuja to Lagos was forced to make a return to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport after cabin crew needed oxygen and other first aid protocols to rescue a female passenger onboard from dying.
The passenger was said to be flying in the company of her husband and other family members when the crew were notified that she was suffering from Reduced Mobility and needed a emergency medical attention.
A statement from the Airline’s General Manager in charge of Media and Public Affairs Mrs Aniekan Essienette in Uyo yesterday said the absence if a certified medical personnel aboard the flight further threatened her resucitation but for the quick intervention and resoucefullness of the cabin crew.
“On September 21st, a female passeger experienced a medical emergency shortly after take-off on board Ibom Air Flight 561 from Abuja to Lagos. Our cabin crew, fully trained in handling in-flight medical emergencies, responded swiftly and professionally by administering oxygen, CPR, and other first-aid protocols.
“Prior to departure, the Senior Cabin Crew Member (SCCM) was notified of a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), travelling with her husband and family. Shortly after take-off, and as the crew commenced in-flight service, a medical emergency was reported in the cabin.
“The SCCM and the team immediately assessed the situation and made a public announcement requesting medical personnel onboard, but none was available.
“The crew promptly applied the DRABCDE protocol, Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure in line with first-aid best practice. The passenger, who had no detectable pulse or breathing, was moved to the galley area where CPR and oxygen administration were carried out.
‘”In accordance with standard safety procedures, the captain made the decision to return to Abuja to ensure the passenger received immediate medical attention. During the flight back, the crew took turns performing chest compressions and providing updates to the captain until landing.” The statement explained.
On arrival, it said the passenger, who had been successfully resuscitated by the Ibom Air crew, was handed over to the airport’s emergency medical response team for further care.
“At the time of transfer, the passenger’s pulse and breathing had been revived, and she was reported stable. The flight was subsequently turned around and resumed service.
Passenger safety remains Ibom Air’s highest priority. We commend our cabin crew for their professionalism and swift response, and we also acknowledge the airport medical team for their immediate support on arrival.” The statement concluded.
