Airports And Childbirth: Prepared For The Unexpected?

While airports are equipped to handle medical emergencies, the question of whether they are prepared for childbirth is a complex one. On the one hand, airports have first aid facilities and staff trained to handle various medical situations. Additionally, in-flight childbirth is extremely rare, with airlines typically requiring pregnant women close to their due date to present a doctor's certificate deeming them fit to fly. However, childbirth is a unique and unpredictable situation that may require specialized skills and equipment not routinely available at airports. Therefore, it is challenging to provide a definitive answer, and the level of preparedness may vary across different airports.

What to do if a child is born mid-flight

Although rare, unexpected births on flights do happen. Here is a list of steps to follow if a baby is born mid-flight:

Step 1: Consult with Passengers

The first step is to ask if there are any medical professionals on board who can assist with the birth. If there are no medical personnel, flight attendants will need to step in and aid the mother as best they can.

Step 2: Consider Emergency Landing

The crew will then need to decide whether to divert the plane and make an emergency landing. This is a case-by-case decision, as emergency landings are costly and inconvenient for the airline and other passengers, but they may be necessary if the mother or baby is in distress.

Step 3: Make the Mother Comfortable

If an emergency landing is not possible or deemed necessary, the crew should move the mother to a more spacious and comfortable seat, perhaps in business or first class, or clear an area in the galley to create a more private space.

Step 4: Prepare for the Birth

Use any available resources, such as hot towels and blankets, to prepare for the birth. The flight attendants will need to act as ad-hoc midwives, so it is essential to remain calm and follow any instructions given by medical professionals on board.

Step 5: Post-Birth Care

Once the baby is born, the mother and child should be monitored until the plane lands. It is important to ensure they are both healthy and doing well.

Step 6: Notify Authorities

When the plane lands, notify the local authorities and medical personnel. They will be able to provide further assistance and ensure the mother and baby are properly cared for.

It is important to note that the citizenship of a baby born on a flight is not always clear and can vary depending on the laws of the country and the location of the aircraft. Some countries follow the "ius sanguinis" principle, which gives the baby the same citizenship as their parents, while others adhere to the "ius soli" principle, granting citizenship based on the location of birth.

What documents to carry when travelling with a newborn

When travelling with a newborn, it is important to carry the correct documentation. Here is a list of documents that you may need:

• Birth certificate: This is the most common form of identification for newborns and is often required for domestic travel. It is advisable to carry a copy of the birth certificate in your luggage or diaper bag, and some airlines mandate this.
• Passport: If you are travelling internationally, your newborn will need a passport. Obtaining a passport can take time, so it is best to plan ahead.
• Doctor's note: Some airlines require a formal doctor's note stating that it is safe for the infant to fly, especially if the infant is under 14 days old.
• Immunization records: These can be used as an alternative form of identification when flying with a newborn.
• Parental consent form: If you are travelling with your child and the other parent is not present, some airlines and countries may require a notarized parental consent form. This may also be required if you are travelling with a newborn and are their guardian, rather than their parent.
• Custody document: If you have sole custody of the child, you should carry a copy of the custody document.
• Visa: Depending on the country you are travelling to, your newborn may need a visa.
• Travel authorisation: If the destination requires travel authorisation, the minor will need their own permit.

It is important to check with the airline and your destination country to ensure you have all the necessary documents, as requirements may vary.

What facilities do airports have for new mothers

Airports are not always known for being the most comfortable places, but they are making strides to accommodate new mothers. The Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Act, written by Senator Tammy Duckworth, was signed into law in October 2018. This bipartisan initiative requires medium and large hub airports to provide a dedicated lactation area in every terminal. The FAM Improvement Act, an extension of the original bill, was signed into law in October 2020 and mandates that small hub airports provide the same facilities by September 30, 2022.

These laws require that lactation areas include a place to sit, a table or flat surface, an electrical outlet, and a sink or sanitizing equipment. They must also be accessible to people with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs.

Some airports have gone beyond the requirements of the FAM Act to provide additional amenities for new mothers. For example, the Orlando International Airport (MCO) has 18 lactation spaces, including 14 Nursing Rooms and four Mamava pods. They also offer interactive spaces and art exhibits for families, such as a fun garden and a wellness garden.

The Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) provides six Mother's Rooms and 10 Mamava pods, all open 24/7. There is also a play area in the Family Lounge in Terminal 2.

Other airports with notable facilities for new mothers include the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

In addition to dedicated lactation areas, most airports also have nursing rooms and stations available for new mothers.

What to do if a child is born prematurely mid-flight

While it is a rare occurrence, there have been instances of babies being born prematurely mid-flight. Here is a guide on what to do in such a situation:

Stay Calm and Seek Help:

If you or someone near you goes into premature labour mid-flight, try to remain calm and seek assistance from the flight crew. They are trained to handle such situations and will provide support.

Medical Assistance:

If there are any doctors or medical professionals on board, inform the crew immediately. They can provide essential medical care and assistance during the birth.

Notify the Flight Crew:

Alert the flight attendants or cabin crew as soon as possible. They are trained to handle in-flight medical emergencies and can provide necessary assistance and make arrangements for a safer delivery.

Move to a Spacious Area:

If possible, move the pregnant woman to a more spacious area, such as the galley or business/first-class section. This will provide more room and comfort for the birth.

Contact the Pilot:

The pilot should be informed about the situation to make necessary arrangements. In some cases, the flight may be diverted to the nearest airport to ensure the pregnant woman receives medical attention promptly.

Prepare for the Birth:

Use available resources, such as blankets, pillows, and sterile equipment (if available) to create a clean and comfortable space for the birth. If there is a doctor on board, they will guide you through the process and provide instructions.

Post-Birth Care:

After the birth, it is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Keep them warm and comfortable, and monitor their vital signs. If there is a doctor on board, they can provide immediate post-natal care.

Citizenship and Documentation:

The citizenship of a child born mid-flight can be determined by the airspace of the nation the flight was in at the time of birth or the parents' nationality. If these factors do not provide a solution, the child's citizenship is determined by the nation where the plane is registered. Ensure that you work with the airline and relevant authorities to obtain the necessary documentation for the child.

What to do if a child is born prematurely at the airport

While it is unlikely for a child to be born prematurely at an airport, it is always good to be prepared for any situation. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do if this rare event occurs:

Stay Calm and Call for Help:

If you notice a pregnant woman experiencing premature labour, try to keep her calm and comfortable. Alert airport staff or security immediately and ask them to call for emergency medical assistance.

Provide First Aid:

If you have first aid training and it is safe to do so, assist the mother-to-be by helping her to a comfortable and private location. Make sure to monitor her vital signs and provide reassurance until emergency responders arrive.

Gather Essential Items:

While waiting for medical professionals to arrive, gather any essential items that may be needed, such as blankets, towels, or a first aid kit. If possible, sterilise any items that will come into direct contact with the baby.

Prepare for Delivery:

Follow the instructions of emergency responders or, if they have not yet arrived, take guidance from remote medical advisors. Prepare a clean surface for delivery, such as a table or the floor, and gather sterile gloves, scissors, and cord clamps if available.

Assist with Delivery:

If the baby is crowning, guide the mother to gently breathe and push. Support the baby's head as it emerges and clear any fluid from the mouth and nose. Once delivered, ensure the baby is breathing and wrap them in a warm blanket.

Provide Post-Delivery Care:

Maintain the baby's body temperature by keeping them warm and dry. If possible, initiate skin-to-skin contact between the mother and baby. Continue to monitor both the mother and child's vital signs and provide comfort until emergency responders arrive.

Collaborate with Medical Professionals:

When emergency responders arrive, provide them with all the information you have about the mother and baby's condition. Follow their instructions and assist them as needed.

Remember, while this situation is highly unusual, staying calm and following these steps can help ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and child.

Frequently asked questions