Senate Bigwigs Urge Airlines to Stock EpiPens on Flights
In an exclusive letter first shared with CNN, senators Elizabeth Warren, Chuck Schumer, and Ed Markey voiced their concerns to the FAA over viable loopholes in their guidelines regarding emergency equipment aboard planes. These loopholes, they argued, expose passengers to unnecessary risks.
The letter contends that the FAA regulations, last revised in 2004, only mandate airlines to carry emergency adrenaline in syringes primarily for addressing heart emergencies. The senators demand that the current guidelines be amended to include an EpiPen in the emergency kit of every flight and to regularly assess medical equipment requirements.
CNN reached out to the FAA for a comment.
In May 2019, Alexa Jordan found herself on a flight from Boston to Chicago, snacking on a salad purchased at the airport which was supposedly nut-free – a food she was allergic to. After injecting herself with an EpiPen she carried, she recounted to CNN that her throat remained tight, and she feared the situation wouldn't improve without administering a second dose.
The Association of Flight Attendants, representing crewmembers from United, Spirit, and Alaska Airlines, has long advocated for Congress and the FAA to reevaluate and recommend updates to the list of required medical supplies on board, including allergy relievers.
A study published in the JAMA medical journal in 2018 revealed that a medical emergency occurs on about 1 out of 604 flights, with anaphylaxis being a "frequent" issue, accounting for 1.6% of these incidents.
The Transportation Security Administration allows passengers to carry a "medically necessary" EpiPen through the airport security checkpoints.
This developing story will be updated.
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The senators are advocating for airlines to consider including EpiPens in their emergency kits due to potential allergic reactions among passengers.
An alternative sentence: The lack of clear guidelines from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on carrying EpiPens for anaphylaxis emergencies on flights was a notable concern raised by the senators.
Enrichment Insights:
- TSA Regulations: EpiPens are allowed in carry-on luggage and do not require declaration at security checkpoints. However, it is recommended to keep them easily accessible in the event of an emergency[1].
- Airline Policies: While most airlines align with TSA regulations, some may have additional requirements or restrictions. It is advisable to review the specific policies of your chosen airline before traveling, especially if you have severe allergies or conditions susceptible to flare-ups[1].
- Documentation: While not mandatory, carrying a doctor's note or prescription can help prevent unnecessary scrutiny from security personnel should you need to administer an EpiPen during the flight[1].
- Special Considerations: If you have a severe allergy or medical condition, informing flight staff in advance about your needs can help ensure prompt assistance during an emergency. Some airlines may permit passengers to carry extra emergency medication in a separate bag, provided it complies with security regulations[1].
Despite the concerns raised by the senators, there are no recent legislation changes or bills specifically addressing the requirement for EpiPens on airplanes due to allergic reactions. However, well-established guidelines and best practices for carrying EpiPens during air travel should be adhered to.
