Archive · 9 Nov 2025
Doctor Describes Attempt to Save Passenger Who Died Mid-Flight
Imagine being on a plane trip when suddenly, a person needs help.
On a Singapore Airlines flight, a man became very sick.
Luckily, three doctors were also on the plane and rushed to help him.
They worked hard, giving him special chest pushes called CPR and using a machine to shock his heart.
Even though they tried their very best for a long time, they couldn't make him better.
It was very sad, but the doctors knew they did everything they could.
The man's wife was thankful they tried, and the airline thanked everyone who helped.
Sometimes, even with the best help, people can't be saved, and that's a part of life.
A passenger on a Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore to Milan died mid-flight.
Three onboard doctors, including gastroenterologist Dr. Desmond Wai, attempted to save the passenger.
The medical team performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) for approximately 30 minutes.
The passenger was reportedly a liver cancer patient.
Despite their efforts, the medical team was unable to revive the passenger.
- Who
- A passenger who died mid-flight, aided by three onboard doctors including Dr. Desmond Wai and cabin crew.
- What
- A passenger died mid-flight despite attempts by medical professionals and cabin crew to revive him.
- When
- Wednesday, November 5
- Where
- Onboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ378, en route from Singapore to Milan.
- Why
- The passenger was a liver cancer patient, and efforts to save him were unsuccessful.
Medical Professionals
Airline
Response to Emergency
Medical Professionals
Dr. Wai and other doctors immediately responded to the call for medical help, viewing it as an ethical duty. They actively performed CPR and used an AED.
Airline
Singapore Airlines expressed gratitude to the passengers and medical personnel who assisted, acknowledging their help during the emergency.
Outcome and Limitations
Medical Professionals
Despite significant efforts, the medical team was unable to revive the passenger after 30 minutes, acknowledging that sometimes despite best efforts, the outcome is unsuccessful.
Airline
Singapore Airlines cited privacy reasons for not sharing further details about the incident.
- Airline
- Singapore Airlines
- Flight Number
- SQ378
- Departure
- Singapore
- Destination
- Milan
- Date of Incident
- Wednesday, November 5
- Passenger Condition
- Reportedly a liver cancer patient
- Medical Assistance Provided
- CPR, AED usage