Air France #AF345 from Montreal diverted to Shannon due to urgent medical situation

On Sunday, October 27, 2024, Air France flight AF-345, traveling from Montreal to Paris, encountered a medical emergency while en route. Approximately 45 minutes west of Ireland, the crew reported a suspected heart attack affecting a male passenger in his 60s. The aircraft, an Airbus A350-900, descended from its cruising altitude and diverted to Shannon Airport, where it landed at 03:03 AM. Emergency medical assistance was arranged prior to arrival, and the aircraft resumed its journey to Paris around 4:30 AM. In the field of transportation, this incident highlights the critical nature of coordination between air traffic control and medical services during emergencies. The crew's prompt actions and effective communication with air traffic control ensured a swift response, potentially saving the passenger's life. This situation underscores the importance of robust emergency protocols and training for airline staff, as well as the necessity for airports to be equipped to handle medical emergencies swiftly and efficiently.