Kenyan-born nurse Irene Masai of Massachusetts saves life on Nairobi-Boston flight
At 36,000 feet above the Atlantic, a sudden medical emergency turned a routine United Airlines flight from Nairobi to Boston into a life-or-death situation. A passenger lost consciousness, leaving fellow travelers alarmed and unsure how to respond.
In that critical moment, Irene Jepchirchir Masai, a Kenyan-born registered nurse and former U.S. Army medic, sprang into action. Drawing on her extensive medical and military training, she quickly assessed the situation, delivered life-saving first aid, stabilized the passenger using available resources, and monitored the patient’s condition throughout the 14-hour flight.
Airline regulations require flight crews to be trained in basic first aid and CPR, and commercial aircraft are equipped with medical kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Crews can also consult ground-based medical teams in emergencies. However, serious medical incidents often rely on the presence of trained passengers. Masai’s swift and skilled intervention exemplifies how expertise, courage, and composure can make the critical difference in such moments.
United Airlines formally recognized her heroism under its “Heroes on Board” program, awarding her a complimentary flight ticket and praising her professionalism, composure, and life-saving actions.
Masai’s journey to this heroic moment reflects a lifetime of dedication to healthcare and service. Born in Kenya, she attended Moi Girls High School in Eldoret before moving to the United States to pursue higher education.
Her military service as a sergeant with the U.S. Army Special Operations Command equipped her with advanced emergency medical training, preparing her to respond decisively under pressure.
Masai’s bravery is a source of pride for Kenyans everywhere. Her quick thinking and skill not only saved a life but also highlighted the global impact of Kenyan talent and resilience.
“Everyone was so happy, you should have seen people, they all came to thank me,” Masai shared. Her actions remind the world that courage, expertise, and a calm presence of mind can turn potential tragedy into hope, even thousands of feet above the ground.
