Every flight attendant knows that handling unexpected situations is part of the job, and one of the less glamorous aspects involves assisting passengers who become unwell. Whether it’s due to turbulence, anxiety, or an upset stomach, passenger sickness is something every cabin crew member is trained to manage with care, discretion, and professionalism. But how exactly do flight attendants handle these moments, and what steps are in place to ensure the comfort of the sick passenger as well as the safety of others onboard?

Calmly assessing the situation

When a passenger becomes unwell, flight attendants are trained to remain calm and composed. Whether the sickness is caused by motion sickness or a medical issue, the priority is to assess the passenger’s condition quickly and discreetly. Attendants ask a few key questions to understand the severity of the situation:

  • Is the passenger conscious?
  • Are they experiencing any other symptoms?
  • Do they have a history of similar issues?

This helps the crew determine if it’s a minor case of nausea or if it could be part of a more serious medical emergency requiring additional steps.

  • Key point: Staying calm helps the crew reassure the passenger and manage the situation effectively.

Offering sickness bags and basic assistance

One of the first things flight attendants do is provide airsickness bags to passengers who feel nauseous. These bags are placed in the seat pockets in front of each passenger and are often the first line of defense against any mess. Along with offering the bag, attendants may offer wet wipes, tissues, and water to help the passenger feel more comfortable.

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The key here is to provide swift assistance while being mindful of the surrounding passengers, ensuring minimal disruption to the rest of the cabin.

  • Key point: Flight attendants aim to provide quick and discreet assistance with sickness bags and other essentials.

Discreet cleanup procedures

If the sickness results in a mess, flight attendants follow strict cleaning protocols to ensure that hygiene is maintained. Airlines provide cabin crew with gloves, sanitizing wipes, and disinfectant sprays specifically designed to clean up in-flight messes.

The cleanup process is done as discreetly as possible, so other passengers are not disturbed. After cleaning, attendants will dispose of any contaminated materials in hazardous waste bags to avoid cross-contamination.

  • Key point: Flight attendants handle cleanups professionally and discreetly to maintain a sanitary and pleasant environment for all passengers.

Preventing cross-contamination

Cabin crew members are trained in infection control and understand the importance of avoiding cross-contamination. In cases of passenger sickness, gloves are worn during the cleanup, and areas like seatbacks, tray tables, and armrests are wiped down thoroughly with disinfectant.

Additionally, after dealing with a sick passenger, flight attendants are careful to wash or sanitize their hands to prevent the spread of any potential germs.

  • Key point: Proper hygiene and cross-contamination prevention are top priorities when dealing with passenger sickness.

Passenger comfort and follow-up

After cleaning up, flight attendants make sure to check in on the passenger’s well-being. They may offer them a seat near the lavatory if it’s unoccupied, or provide a cool towel and water to help them recover. If the passenger needs further medical attention, flight attendants are prepared to handle it, either by consulting with ground-based medical professionals or calling for medical assistance from onboard passengers.

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The crew also ensures that the passenger is comfortable for the remainder of the flight and might provide advice on how to prevent further discomfort, such as staying hydrated or taking small sips of ginger ale.

  • Key point: Caring for the sick passenger’s comfort is just as important as cleaning up the immediate mess.

Managing in-flight turbulence and prevention

Turbulence is one of the most common causes of passenger sickness. In cases of severe turbulence, flight attendants may preemptively offer sickness bags to passengers who are prone to motion sickness or appear unwell. Additionally, they may advise passengers to avoid reading or using electronic devices during turbulence, as these activities can worsen motion sickness.

Sometimes, they might adjust service, such as postponing meals, to prevent additional discomfort for passengers. The goal is to help passengers avoid reaching the point of becoming unwell, especially in turbulent conditions.

  • Key point: Preventing motion sickness is a proactive step flight attendants take, especially during rough flights.

Share your thoughts below!

Handling passenger sickness is part of a flight attendant’s role, but it’s all done with professionalism and care. Have you ever witnessed cabin crew manage this situation? Share your experience or ask questions in the comments below. You can also join our cabin crew forum for more in-depth discussions or check out our cabin crew jobs page to see how you can start your career in the skies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do flight attendants do when a passenger becomes sick?

They calmly assess the situation, ask questions to understand the passenger’s condition, and determine if it’s a minor issue or something more serious.

2. How do flight attendants help passengers who feel nauseous?

They provide airsickness bags, wet wipes, tissues, and water to help the passenger feel more comfortable. They do this quickly and discreetly to minimise disruption.

3. How do flight attendants handle cleaning up after a sick passenger?

They follow strict cleaning protocols using gloves, sanitising wipes, and disinfectant sprays. The process is done discreetly, and contaminated materials are safely disposed of.

4. How do flight attendants prevent cross-contamination?

They wear gloves during cleanups and thoroughly disinfect the affected areas. Afterward, they wash or sanitise their hands to avoid spreading germs.

5. What happens after the cleanup?

Flight attendants check on the sick passenger, offering water, a cool towel, or a seat change if needed. They also make sure the passenger is comfortable for the rest of the flight.

6. How do flight attendants handle sickness during turbulence?

They may offer sickness bags and advise passengers to avoid activities like reading or using electronic devices during turbulence to prevent worsening nausea.

7. What steps do flight attendants take to prevent motion sickness?

Flight attendants take proactive steps, such as offering sickness bags during turbulent flights and adjusting services like meal timing to reduce passenger discomfort.