KIMS Doctor Saves Life Mid-Air On Air India Flight

Bhubaneswar: In a remarkable demonstration of quick thinking and medical proficiency, Dr. Ashok Kumar Badamali, a senior consultant in cardiac anesthesia at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) Bhubaneswar, rescued a fellow passenger on Air India Express flight I5 764 from New Delhi to Pune. The incident unfolded during the early hours of the morning when cabin crew, led by Mr. Saurav, urgently requested assistance from any paramedics or nursing personnel on board due to a medical emergency.

A middle-aged woman was discovered unresponsive in her seat, prompting immediate action. Dr. Badamali, who was en route to Pune for research purposes, swiftly answered the call for help. The patient was relocated to the aircraft floor to facilitate resuscitation efforts. Upon assessment, Dr. Badamali noted the patient’s unresponsiveness and agonal breathing, along with an extremely rapid carotid pulse. Drawing upon his expertise in cardiac emergencies, he performed a carotid massage that proved lifesaving.

Under Dr. Badamali’s careful supervision, the patient was placed in the recovery position and remained stable until the flight safely landed at Pune International Airport. The flight’s pilot, Mr. Rahul, along with crew members Mr. Saurav and Miss Puja, expressed their gratitude to Dr. Badamali for his prompt and decisive actions. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, also extended his thanks to Dr. Badamali for his exemplary service.