AEDs required on US airlines

April 12, 2001

The Federal Aviation administration issued a final rule on April 12, 2001, which requires US airlines to carry automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and enhanced medical kits (EMKs) on planes that weigh 7500 pounds each and have at least one flight attendant. The ruling affects commercial airlines and regional jets with 30 seats or more. All crewmembers will receive initial training on the EMK and on the location, function, and intended operation of an AED. Flight attendants will receive initial and recurrent training in CPR and on the use of AEDs. The deadline for complying with this rule is May 12, 2004.

"Nine airlines either currently carry AEDs and enhanced kits or have made a commitment to do so," said FAA Administrator Jane F. Garvey. "Our rule will ensure that all airline passengers have access to this potentially life-saving device."

Airlines that currently carry AEDs include: Alaska, Aloha, American, Com Air, Delta, US Airways, Northwest, Jet Blue and American Eagle. Airlines planning to implement AED programs include Continental, Hawaiian, United, Frontier, Southwest and American Trans Air.

For further information, see Federal Register for Thursday, April 12, 2001, Part III, Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, 14 CFR Parts 121 and 135, Emergency Medical Equipment, Final Rule, or http://www.faa.gov/apa/pr/pr.cfm?id=1262.