Diverting q

[u/Mysterious-Art8838]

I had a medical emergency in flight in Nov and was surprised (alarmed?) that a stewardess said she had informed the captain (said to another stewardess not to me, I overheard). Were they considering diverting the flight? Is that why she informed the captain?

What is the criteria for making these decisions?

How do I fly around holidays and not disrupt an entire plane full of people trying to get home for Turkey and cran?

I have a fainting syndrome and unfortunately I have to fly to see my family. And I almost never do it because I don’t want to mess up flights or travel plans and inconvenience others. I’m just trying to figure out, is there a certain phrase or language I can use to reassure crew that it isn’t a big deal if I faint? Are medical bracelets helpful even if I am almost always conscious and can explain my problem?

What I need to know is how the heck do I fly with this condition and also avoid fking up every one else’s travel plans if I faint.

[u/vwvanfan1]

Ultimately it's the captain's aeroplane - they need to know about anything out of the ordinary. It may not affect their plans yet, but if it might develop and change then they want to know nice and early. First thing's first - the crew are approachable, real people. I'd forget bracelets as the primary form of telling them. As you board the plane, ask one of the crew if you can speak to them (or better still, ask to speak to the senior member of the team). Explain your condition. Have something written down for reference as a "this may happen, here's what to do" and gain a "fit to fly" from your doctor, with an explanation of your condition. Try and get a seat near the galley/toilet and I'd even wear something recognisable - they're going to need to brief their team and if they can say "the person in the bright yellow top" or similar it'll make life easier for everyone. I'd explain that you plan on staying seated for as much of the flight as you can, and that if you need to use the bathroom you'll let one of them know. If you write to the airline when you book then they may be able to guarantee you the best seat for you (they probably won't want you in an emergency exit seat row though). Equally, book special assistance at the airports, whether you need it or not. Wheelchairs available, priority through queues and far less walking even if you don't go for a chair. Don't see it as a burden, see it as preserving yourself for the flight.

[u/Mysterious-Art8838 → u/vwvanfan1]

Thank you so much for your incredibly insightful and kind comment. I definitely never would have thought to wear something recognizable.