Passenger Dies After Medical Emergency on Air Canada Flight: A Reminder of Why CPR Training Matters
A 78-year-old woman, identified as Surjit Kaur, went into medical distress during an Air Canada flight from Toronto to Vancouver and sadly passed away despite determined efforts from fellow passengers, including trained medical professionals.
The full original news report can be found here:
👉 Passenger dies after going into distress on Air Canada flight
A Sudden Emergency at 30,000 Feet
The incident occurred Tuesday night as the flight traveled above Saskatchewan. Witnesses reported that Kaur became extremely ill and then unresponsive. With 314 passengers onboard, the situation quickly became an urgent medical crisis.
Several passengers rushed to her aid—including two doctors, a nurse, and Vancouver resident Hayden Ordel, who had basic first aid and CPR training through his work in the film industry. Despite never having performed CPR outside of practice, Ordel immediately stepped in to help.
“We were literally having to pump her chest as fast and hard as we could… for 35 or 40 minutes she was unresponsive in the air,” Ordel told CTV News. Medical professionals onboard also used a defibrillator to monitor her condition throughout the ordeal.
Kaur’s adult son was at her side, witnessing the extensive efforts to save his mother’s life.
Emergency Landing in Calgary
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the flight crew diverted the aircraft to Calgary, where paramedics were waiting on arrival. According to the captain, Kaur showed initial signs of responsiveness upon being transported to the hospital, offering a brief moment of hope.
However, by Thursday morning, her family confirmed the heartbreaking news that she had passed away.
After the emergency landing, the aircraft was refueled and continued its journey to Vancouver.
Why CPR and First Aid Training Save Lives
This tragic event is a powerful reminder that medical emergencies can happen anywhere—even thousands of feet in the air, far from immediate hospital care. In those moments, bystanders become the first responders, and their actions matter.
When someone suffers cardiac arrest or becomes unresponsive, every second counts. CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival, especially when initiated quickly.
If you want to be prepared for real-life emergencies, consider taking a certified CPR and AED course.
👉 Learn more about CPR training in Calgary here: https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Even though not every outcome can be changed—as in this heartbreaking case—the efforts made by trained bystanders provide the person with the best possible chance.
Make Safety Part of Your Skill Set
Enrolling in a First Aid and CPR course is an investment in preparedness. You’ll learn:
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How to recognize signs of cardiac arrest
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How to safely and effectively perform CPR
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How to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
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How to assist in choking, breathing emergencies, and sudden illness
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What to do during medical situations involving seniors, children, and adults
These lifesaving skills empower you to act confidently when hesitation can cost lives.
Learn More & Get Trained
Want to understand the basics or build your skills further? Explore these helpful resources:
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