Medical Emergency Averted by Eye Doctor on Flight to Israel

A flight from Tbilisi, Georgia to Ben Gurion Airport turned into an unexpected medical drama when a young heart patient fell gravely ill mid-air only to be saved by an unlikely hero: an Israeli eye doctor.

Dr. Eyal Aloni, head of the ophthalmology department at Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, was among the passengers when a 23-year-old man began experiencing severe chest pains, dizziness, and sweating. Just 40 minutes after takeoff, a call for medical help rang out through the cabin.

Without hesitation, Aloni raised his hand. “It was like in the movies,” he later recounted. “I looked around and saw that I was the only one who could help.”

Aloni quickly made his way to the back of the plane, where he found the patient struggling to breathe and speak. The flight crew had already provided oxygen, and the seasoned ophthalmologist jumped into action. Using medications he had with him including aspirin he managed to stabilize the man’s condition. The patient was also relocated to a spot where he could lie down for the remainder of the flight.

“I asked for an ambulance to wait for him after landing, and so it was,” Aloni said. “I don’t know what his condition is or if he had a heart attack, but I’m glad I was there to help.”

Thanks to Aloni’s swift response and calm under pressure, the young man was transferred to emergency care upon arrival in Israel. Paramedics were waiting on the tarmac, ensuring a seamless transition from sky to hospital.

The doctor later praised the flight crew and fellow passengers for their cooperation: “I thank the flight crew and passengers for their assistance, and I wish the patient a complete recovery and good health.”

Stories like these showcase the everyday miracles performed by Israeli medical professionals not only within hospital walls but wherever their expertise is needed, even at 30,000 feet.

Share this story to honor Israel’s medical heroes and subscribe to our newsletter for more uplifting stories of Israeli excellence.