FAA Requires Better Medical Kits on Planes

People who suffer heart attacks and other emergencies in flight may not have to wait until they are on the ground for treatment, under a regulation that took effect Friday requiring airlines to carry better medical kits.

The new Federal Aviation Administration regulation requires airlines to carry stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, needles and syringes and drugs to treat insulin shock, allergic reactions and heart attacks. Those items are in addition to the bandages, ammonia inhalants, splints and antiseptic swabs that airlines already carry.

The new regulation does not require medical training for flight crews. Airlines provide some training, but it is generally limited to basic first aid care.