Daijiworld Media Network - Portland

Portland, Apr 28: Passengers aboard a Delta Air Lines flight witnessed a rare mid-air medical emergency turn into a joyful moment when a woman gave birth onboard while travelling from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Portland International Airport.

The incident occurred on Flight 478 on Friday night when the passenger went into labour during the journey. The airline confirmed that the woman delivered a baby girl approximately 30 minutes before the aircraft made an emergency landing in Portland around 10 pm.

The airline expressed gratitude to the crew and passengers who assisted during the emergency. A spokesperson said the health and safety of passengers remains the top priority, while wishing the family well.

Two paramedics, Tina Fritz and Kaarin Powell, who were travelling on the flight, responded after an onboard announcement seeking medical professionals. They stepped in to assist the woman, even improvising with limited resources.

According to Fritz, the contractions were already close together, and the situation progressed rapidly. With no medical kit available, they relied on items from passengers and crew, including shoelaces, to manage the delivery.

The baby girl was born healthy, weighing approximately 5 pounds 8 ounces and measuring 18.5 inches, the paramedics later shared.

The incident has drawn attention to airline policies regarding pregnant travellers. While Delta does not impose restrictions on flying during pregnancy, medical experts generally advise caution, especially in later stages, and recommend consulting a doctor before travel.