Exploring the Nature and Challenges Among Physicians in Saudi Arabia Responding to an Inflight Medical Emergency: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background Inflight medical emergencies (IMEs) present a challenging situation due to the availability of limited medical resources and a complex cabin environment. The physicians have an ethical responsibility to aid in such situations. This study aims to assess the attitudes of Saudi physicians regarding IMEs. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among medical interns and postgraduate physicians in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected via a structured online questionnaire distributed through professional networks and social media. The survey evaluated physicians' confidence, preparedness, and barriers to volunteering in an IME. Results A total of 368 respondents were included in the study, with a plurality (42.4%, n = 156) in the 30-39 years age group. The proportion of males was 55.2% (n = 203). Among participants, 67.1% (n = 247) had encountered an IME, and 62% (n = 228) had assisted in such a situation. Regarding the nature of IME, 17.9% (n = 66) of the respondents reported respiratory emergency (e.g., bronchospasm). Participants with prior medical emergency experience showed significantly higher scores than those without (54.64 ± 7.81 vs. 49.30 ± 7.10, p < 0.001). Younger physicians (<30 years) displayed the highest confidence scores (54.85 ± 7.03), while those ≥60 years reported the lowest (46.50 ± 4.94, p < 0.01). Physicians with less experience (less than five years) had higher scores compared to their more experienced counterparts (54.69 ± 7.16 vs. 52.25 ± 5.75, p = 0.039). Barriers to volunteering included lack of training (58.6%, n = 215) and legal concerns (61.1%, n = 227), while 67.6% (n = 249) highlighted the need for additional training as a potential motivator. Conclusion Overall, the majority of the participants included in our study were willing to aid in an IME. Furthermore, being younger, less experienced, and having prior emergency experience were significant factors in determining the decision to aid in an IME.