What happens if someone dies on a plane? How do airlines handle it?

▲ Aircraft cabin (Photo / Dazhi / Illustration)

By Rita

Birth, aging, illness, and death are all part of life’s natural cycle. During flights, many unexpected events are unpredictable. So what happens if someone dies on a plane? Business Insider covered this topic, and the truth is, there’s no need to panic if you ever find yourself in such a situation.

According to reports, the New England Journal of Medicine conducted a survey of five airlines. Among 11,900 in-flight emergency incidents between 2008 and 2010, 36 people died as a result. The procedures for handling a deceased passenger vary by airline, but generally, the crew will first hold an internal discussion to decide whether to continue the flight or make an emergency landing. The final decision depends on the aircraft’s current location, the cause of the passenger’s death, and the circumstances at the time. The airline will also liaise with local medical personnel.

Basically, if possible,the body is usually moved to an unoccupied seat or first class; if no seats are available, flight attendants will secure the body with a seatbelt and cover it appropriately. However, the information that someone has passed away on board is not announced until after landing to avoid unnecessary panic.At the same time, local medical personnel or authorities will provide appropriate measures and services.