Pilot Helps Woman Deliver Baby During VietJet Flight From Taipei to Bangkok

A VietJet pilot, Jakarin Sararnrakskul, helped deliver a baby while operating a flight from Taipei-Taoyuan (TPE) to Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi (BKK). 

The Flight

A VietJet flight operated from Taoyuan International Airport(TPE) to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) using an Airbus A320 with registration HS-VKC. The Captain had quite an interesting experience when he heard a mother had started going into labor in the plane's lavatory. Sararnraksul, a pilot with 18 years of experience, gave the controls over to his co-pilot and rushed to the woman's aid; despite having no medical training, he successfully helped deliver the baby. 

"I've been a pilot for 18 years," Sararnraksul proudly shared on social media. "Just helped a newborn baby on the plane. So proud to be part of bringing him into the world."

The baby was delivered safely and healthy. When the flight landed in Bangkok, medical personnel waited to ensure both the mother and her baby were okay. The baby was later given the nickname "Sky Baby."  

The Rules

While most guidelines say that pregnant women can fly well into their pregnancy, it's usually advised not to due to the risk of going into labor is high at 37 weeks. Many airlines could refuse pregnant women to fly with them for this very reason, so make sure to check the airline's rules and regulations. 

The UK National Health Service (NHS) website states: 

"After week 28 of pregnancy, the airline may ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date, and that you are not at risk of complications."

"Make sure your travel insurance covers you for any eventuality, such as pregnancy-related medical care during labor, premature birth, and the cost of changing the date of your return trip if you go into labor."

Past Births

Dr. Aisha Khatib, a Canadian doctor, was flying to Uganda in 2019 when flight attendants asked for medical assistance over the intercom. A passenger, 25-year-old woman, was unexpectedly going into labor. Fortunately, Dr. Khatib, who was traveling with basic medical supplies, reacted in no time.

With the help of flight attendants and other passengers, Dr. Khatib delivered a healthy baby girl on the plane, 35,000 feet (10,668 meters) above ground. The mother named the baby "Miracle Aisha" after the doctor who delivered her in such unique circumstances. 

Another birth took place back in 2021 when a woman from Morocco went into labor two weeks earlier than expected. Thankfully, the cabin crew was quick to react and was lucky to have a doctor on board to assist in the delivery. The doctor, who had coincidentally delayed his return trip, was able to help deliver a healthy baby boy. The parents named their son "Kavim," a name holding a special meaning in Turkish, symbolizing strength and power. 

Many births do happen on airplanes. While rare, with a 1 in 26 million probability, they still can happen, and many see it as a miracle.