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Airline policy relating to passengers with epilepsy
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Archives of Neurology
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Airline policies for passengers with epilepsy vary significantly, with inconsistent advice on medication and onboard support. Many airlines lack adequate crew training and medical supplies for in-flight seizures, despite their rarity.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- International airline policies regarding the carriage of passengers with epilepsy are not standardized.
- Existing guidelines for managing in-flight medical emergencies, including seizures, require review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the policies of international airlines concerning the transport of passengers with epilepsy.
- To assess the preparedness of airlines for managing in-flight seizures.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was distributed to the medical advisors of 42 international airlines.
- The survey inquired about airline policies, cabin crew training, onboard medications for seizures, and reported incidents.
Main Results:
- 37% of responding airlines had specific policies or restrictions for epileptic passengers.
- 5 airlines recommended increased anticonvulsant dosage, and 1 required a travel companion.
- 83% of airlines included epilepsy in cabin crew training, and 57% carried diazepam onboard.
Conclusions:
- Airline policies and advice for epileptic passengers are inconsistent, with some recommendations lacking clear justification.
- Cabin crew training and onboard medical provisions for seizures vary and may be insufficient.
- Standardization of airline policies and enhanced crew training are needed to ensure passenger safety.