An Indigo flight from Goa to Chandigarh experienced a flight emergency on June 16. Major Simrat Rajdeep Singh, a doctor assigned to the Command Hospital Western Command Chandimandir in Chandigarh, was among the passengers on board flight 6E724. His quick response and medical skills saved the life of a critically ill passenger.
The incident began soon after the flight took off from Goa at around 5:45 pm. A 27-year-old passenger started experiencing severe respiratory distress, prompting immediate concern from the flight crew. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Major Simrat Rajdeep Singh requested access to the emergency medical kit and began administering life-saving treatment.
With the patient's condition rapidly worsening, Major Simrat decided that an emergency landing was necessary. He advised the flight crew to divert the plane to Mumbai. The flight crew acted quickly, contacting local air traffic control and arranging for an urgent descent. During the descent, Major Simrat continued to provide critical care, including administering multiple injections and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) to prevent cardiac arrest.
Airline sources reported that the passenger, who had small kidneys and end-stage chronic kidney disease, was particularly vulnerable to the effects of high altitude. The presence of two doctors on board, including Major Simrat, was crucial. They were able to stabilize the patient until the plane landed in Mumbai.
Upon landing, emergency medical staff were ready to assist. The passenger was deplaned in a wheelchair and rushed to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Meanwhile, the flight crew kept the captain updated on the situation at regular intervals.
After the emergency stop, flight 6E724 resumed its journey, departing from Mumbai at 8:30 pm and arriving in Chandigarh by 10:30 pm. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety, highlighting the swift and coordinated efforts of both the flight crew and the medical professionals on board.
Major Simrat Rajdeep Singh's actions received widespread praise. His ability to stay calm under pressure and provide critical care in a high-stress situation not only saved a life but also demonstrated the readiness and skill of military medical personnel. The story quickly gained attention on social media, with the hashtag #InServiceOfNation trending as people expressed their admiration and gratitude.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Susmita Bhandary/MSM)