Blog | Air ambulance | Repatriation from abroad (2024)

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As the world becomes more interconnected, the desire to explore new destinations and embrace new experiences grows stronger. However, for obese individuals, the thought of flying can be accompanied by anxiety and concerns about potential health risks and logistical challenges.

In this comprehensive article, we explore the medical complications linked to obesity, airline policies for obese fliers, and our air ambulance services designed to ensure safe and comfortable travel. Read on to discover how we can make your journey a smooth and worry-free experience.

What you should know about flying when obese:

1. Obesity can pose genuine health risks, including cardiovascular strain, respiratory problems like sleep apnea, and immobility-related risks such as DVT, impacting everyday life and travel.
2. Tips for flying when obese include pre-planning, seat selection for comfort, in-flight exercises, wearing compression garments, and staying hydrated.
3. Risks of traveling for bariatric patients include blood clot formation, discomfort in narrow seats, and potential embarrassment from social stigma.
4. Airlines may have policies for obese fliers, such as purchasing additional seats and accommodating medical equipment like CPAP machines.
5. Our air ambulance services cater to bariatric patients with spacious seating, experienced medical staff, and provisions for medical equipment.
6. We also offer sea-level flights to reduce breathing problems and patient airlift services for those who cannot move on their own, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience for all.

Who qualifies as bariatric patients?

Bariatric patients are individuals with obesity, a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that can significantly impact health. While there are different ways to classify obesity, one common measure is Body Mass Index (BMI). Generally, a BMI of 30 or higher (this range might vary based on their height) qualifies as obese, and patients falling within this range may face specific challenges when traveling.

What are the dangers and medical complications linked to obesity?

Obesity is not just a matter of body image; it poses genuine health risks in everyday life. Excess weight can strain the cardiovascular system, leading to hypertension and an increased risk of heart disease. Respiratory problems like obstructive sleep apnea are also common in obese individuals, which can become exacerbated during daily activities due to reduced oxygen intake. Moreover, immobility-related risks, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), are a real concern during prolonged periods of sitting or inactivity. These complications make it crucial for bariatric patients to be well-prepared and to take the necessary precautions before flying.

What are the tips and tricks for flying when obese?

Flying when obese requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Pre-plan: Inform the airline about any special needs, such as extra seating or medical equipment, well in advance.
• Seat selection: Opt for an aisle seat or seats with more legroom to allow for easier movement and comfort during the flight. You can also consider purchasing an extra seat for added comfort.
• Pre-Flight and In-Flight Exercises: Perform simple exercises to improve blood circulation and prevent clot formation. Ankle rotations and calf raises can be beneficial.
• Compression garments: Wearing compression socks can reduce the risk of DVT during the flight.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to stay hydrated and minimize the risk of developing blood clots.

What are the risks of traveling for bariatric patients?

Traveling can be a thrilling experience, but it comes with unique challenges and potential risks for bariatric patients. Understanding these risks is crucial to ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for individuals with obesity. The following points explore the specific dangers that bariatric patients may face during travel and how certain factors can exacerbate these risks.

Risks for bariatric patients while flying:

• Blood clot formation
• Discomfort
• Embarassment

Blood Clot Formation

One of the primary risks for bariatric patients during travel is the increased likelihood of developing DVT. Prolonged periods of sitting in confined spaces, such as on airplanes can restrict blood flow in the legs, leading to the formation of blood clots. The condition can become life-threatening if a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. The reduced cabin pressure in airplanes can further increase the risk of DVT, as it affects blood flow and oxygen levels in the body.

Discomfort

Bariatric patients may experience significant discomfort during travel, especially in narrow seats designed for standard-sized individuals. The lack of adequate space can lead to physical discomfort and difficulties in finding a comfortable position. The standard seat belts may not fit comfortably around larger individuals, adding to the discomfort during travel.

Embarrassment

Obese individuals may fear judgment or discrimination from other passengers during travel, leading to emotional distress and anxiety. Negative experiences or uncomfortable interactions can impact the overall travel experience and deter individuals from future journeys.

What are the airline policies and restrictions for obese fliers and bariatric patients?

When planning air travel as an obese individual or bariatric patient, it's crucial to be aware of the specific policies and restrictions implemented by airlines. These policies can vary significantly from one airline to another and understanding them beforehand can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Continue reading to understand the various airline policies and restrictions that obese fliers and bariatric patients should consider before booking a flight.

1. Purchasing Additional Seats: Some airlines may require obese individuals to purchase an additional seat to ensure safety and comfort during the flight. The need for an extra seat is determined by factors such as the passenger's size and whether they can comfortably fit within a single seat with the armrests down.
2. Accommodating Medical Equipment: For bariatric patients with medical conditions such as sleep apnea, airlines may allow the use of medical equipment, such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, during the flight. Passengers should inform the airline in advance about their medical needs to ensure proper arrangements and compliance with airline regulations.
3. Armrest Policies: Some airlines have specific policies regarding the use of armrests during the flight. Obese passengers may find it challenging to lower the armrests due to their size. It's essential to check the airline's policy on armrests to understand the level of accommodation available.
4. Seat Availability and Upgrade Options: While airlines do their best to accommodate passengers, it's essential to consider the availability of seats that can comfortably accommodate larger individuals. Passengers may want to explore upgrade options to premium economy or business class, where seats are generally more spacious.
5. Specific Weight Limitations: Certain smaller aircraft may have weight limitations for individual passengers or specific seating areas. It's crucial for obese fliers and bariatric patients to inquire about such limitations and ensure compliance for a safe and smooth journey.

How can we help obese travelers?

We specialize in providing medical flights for bariatric patients, ensuring their comfort and safety during air travel. Our dedicated medical team is experienced in handling the specific needs of obese individuals, from pre-flight preparations to in-flight care.

Our medical flights for bariatric patients

Our medical flights are specially designed to cater to the needs of bariatric patients, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey throughout.

Our experienced medical staff is well-trained in handling the unique medical requirements of bariatric patients. They monitor vital signs regularly, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels, to ensure optimal health during the journey. In case of any medical concerns, our medical professionals are fully equipped to administer medications promptly and provide necessary medical interventions.

Our commitment to excellence extends to all aspects of the journey, including the provision of essential medical equipment. For bariatric patients with medical conditions like sleep apnea, we offer the use of CPAP machines and other necessary medical devices, making their travel experience as smooth and secure as possible.

We also offer sea-level flights for bariatric patients who may experience breathing difficulties at high altitudes. These flights operate at lower altitudes, reducing the impact of decreased oxygen levels and alleviating respiratory challenges.

For extremely obese individuals who cannot move on their own or require specialized lifting and transferring assistance, we provide patient airlift services. Our medical team is trained in safe patient transportation techniques and utilizes specialized equipment to ensure a smooth and secure transfer of patients between locations.

With our patient airlift services, we aim to offer the highest level of comfort and care for those with limited mobility, allowing them to access necessary medical facilities or reach their desired destinations without compromising their well-being. Our focus on inclusivity and patient-centered care makes our services accessible and accommodating for all individuals, regardless of their unique medical needs.

Contact us to book your safe journey now!

We are committed to providing exceptional care for bariatric patients during their journey. Book with us today and embark on a smooth and comfortable air travel experience, knowing that our expert medical team is by your side every step of the way. We are available 24/7 to assist you and plan your flight. Call or write to us to book a medical flight.