Kansas woman dies on Air France flight from Paris to Boston despite doctor trying to help
A woman on an Air France flight from Paris to Boston died of a heart attack Tuesday despite efforts from a doctor on board and the flight crew to save her life.
The deceased, 53-year-old Barbara Dipoli of Topeka, Kansas, was a passenger on flight AF334 from Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Boston Logan International Airport when she suffered a medical episode. State police in Massachusetts described the situation as “an unattended death” and confirmed that detectives from the Suffolk County State Police Detective Unit and the Crime Scene Services Section responded to the scene after the plane landed.
Investigators said Wednesday that the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the woman's cause and manner of death.
Air France issued a statement Wednesday expressing condolences and emphasizing that its crew is trained to handle medical emergencies during flights.
“Air France regrets this sad event and expresses its sincere condolences,” the airline said.
State police also offered condolences to Dipoli's loved ones Wednesday afternoon.
How common are medical emergencies on flights? How are they handled?
Medical emergencies occur on about one of every 604 flights, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The most common emergencies include fainting, respiratory issues, nausea and vomiting. During 90% of these emergencies, aircrafts continue traveling to their destinations.
For the remaining 10% of medical emergencies, planes divert or land elsewhere. Diversions normally occur during serious medical issues such as cardiac arrest, chest pain, obstetric or gynecologic issues or possible strokes.
Still, despite how frequently medical emergencies occur, the death rate is about 0.3%, the CDC said, adding that medical kits normally include medications such as antihistamine, epinephrine, and lidocaine.
This story has been updated to add new information.
Saleen Martin is a reporter on Paste BN's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Follow her on Twitter at @SaleenMartin or email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.