Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) demonstrated exceptional efficiency in handling a critical in-flight medical emergency late on Monday night. The incident involved an Air India Express flight, which was diverted to Mangaluru to ensure immediate medical attention for a passenger in distress.
In-Flight Crisis Triggers Emergency Protocol
The drama unfolded aboard Air India Express flight IX 522, which was on its scheduled route from Riyadh to Thiruvananthapuram. Mid-flight, a male passenger believed to be in his late thirties suffered a serious medical complication. The cabin crew alerted the ground, prompting the airport's operations control centre to spring into action.
Upon receiving the alert, MIA immediately activated its full emergency response protocol. This standard procedure involves mobilising all critical stakeholders to ensure a seamless and swift handling of the situation. The airport's medical team was put on high alert and positioned for immediate intervention upon the aircraft's arrival.
Coordinated Effort Ensures Passenger Safety
The success of such operations hinges on perfect coordination, and MIA's team worked in sync with multiple agencies. Key personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), immigration, and customs were prepped to facilitate the aircraft's priority landing and the passenger's rapid transfer to a hospital.
Once the flight touched down in Mangaluru, the waiting airport medical personnel quickly boarded the aircraft. They provided on-the-spot assessment and primary care to the ailing passenger. It was noted that the initial medical attention provided onboard the flight itself had helped stabilise his condition during the critical period.
Following the assessment, the airport team arranged for the passenger's transfer to a local tertiary-care hospital for advanced treatment. His relatives, who were travelling with him, accompanied him to the medical facility, ensuring he had familiar support during this stressful time.
Flight Resumes After Successful Emergency Handling
With the passenger safely in professional medical care, the focus shifted to resuming the disrupted journey for other travellers. After the necessary formalities and preparations, Air India Express flight IX 522 was able to depart from Mangaluru for its original destination, Thiruvananthapuram, at 2:05 AM on Tuesday.
This incident underscores the critical importance of robust airport emergency protocols and inter-agency coordination. The swift and professional response by Mangaluru International Airport's team likely played a vital role in ensuring a positive outcome for the passenger, turning a potential tragedy into a testament to efficient crisis management.
