Newly-Qualified Nurse Saves Passenger’s Life Mid-Flight on Tui Tenerife Flight
A fresh-faced nurse from Queen’s Hospital in Romford became an airborne hero after a passenger fell seriously ill on a Tui flight to Tenerife. Lucy Copping, a new recruit on Harvest A ward, was flying with her family to celebrate her mum’s 60th birthday when the drama unfolded.
Only Nurse Onboard Steps Up
It was Lucy’s first flight since qualifying, but when an urgent call for medical help rang out, she was the sole passenger to jump to action. Approaching the stricken traveller, she found the woman unresponsive but still breathing. An ambulance worker already aboard reported dangerously low oxygen levels and dropping blood pressure.
Using her newly acquired clinical skills, Lucy acted fast. She laid the passenger across several seats and elevated her legs to boost circulation and stabilise vital signs.
“I just did what I would do if I was at work,” Lucy said. “I focused on getting the passenger’s vital signs in a good place.”
The quick thinking paid off. The woman regained consciousness, sat up, and even drank water. Ground doctors were consulted via the crew and faced with a choice: divert to Lisbon or continue to Tenerife. Lucy assessed the situation and confidently chose to proceed, with the patient staying stable till touchdown.
Tui Shower Nurse With Praise
Back home, Lucy was stunned to receive a thank you card and flowers from Tui, recognising her calm professionalism and bravery at 30,000 feet.
“I thought I’d be asked to write a statement,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting the card and flowers at all but it was really lovely.”
Birthday Trip Saved Despite Mid-Air Crisis
Reflecting on the ordeal, Lucy said the reassurance that the passenger had recovered allowed her family to enjoy the holiday despite a bit of rain.
“Knowing she had recovered meant we could enjoy the holiday and my mum’s birthday. It did rain a bit but it was lovely and relaxing.”
Local Hero Proves NHS Nurses Never Off Duty
Lucy’s story has gone viral in her hometown, with many hailing her as proof that NHS heroes never clock off—even in the skies.
