Why Winter Travel Increases Medical Risks

Cold winter months bring unique challenges for travellers, including:

• Increased respiratory infections (flu, pneumonia, COVID-related complications)
• Slips and falls due to icy conditions
• Exacerbation of heart, lung, and circulatory conditions
• Delays and disruptions caused by winter weather
• Limited access to specialist care while abroad

Many families find themselves facing difficult decisions when a loved one becomes ill overseas — often under time pressure and emotional stress.

This is where professional medical repatriation support becomes essential.

Medical Repatriation Services – Insurance or Private Options

While we work closely with travel insurance providers, private insurers, and hospitals, we also support families who need to self-fund medical repatriation.

Our commitment is simple:

• We explain all available options clearly
• We help secure the most cost-effective solution
• We never compromise on medical safety or standards of care

Whether you require a medical escort on a commercial flight, a stretcher service, or coordination with ground ambulances before and after the flight, our team manages the entire journey bed-to-bed.

What Does “Fit to Fly” Mean — and Why It Matters

One of the most critical steps in any medical repatriation is determining whether a patient is Fit to Fly.

A Fit to Fly assessment ensures the patient can travel safely without risk of deterioration during the flight.

Key Fit to Fly Information We Need

To make safe and timely decisions, our medical team reviews:

• Current diagnosis and medical condition
• Recent hospital reports or discharge summaries
• Oxygen requirements (if any)
• Mobility limitations or need for assistance
• Risk of infection or isolation requirements
• Ability to sit upright for extended periods
• Need for monitoring, medication, or medical equipment during flight

Airlines have strict medical clearance policies, and incomplete information can cause delays or denied boarding. Our team liaises directly with airlines, hospitals, and insurers to ensure everything is approved correctly.

Medical Escort Services on Commercial Flights

For many winter travel cases, a medical escort on a commercial flight is the safest and most affordable solution.

Our medical escort services include:

• Experienced flight doctors, nurses, or paramedics
• Continuous monitoring throughout the journey
• Medication administration as required
• Oxygen support when needed
• Coordination with airports and ground ambulances
• Family members able to travel alongside the patient

This option is often significantly more cost-effective than air ambulance flights while maintaining excellent medical care.

Available 24/7 – When Emergencies Don’t Wait

Medical emergencies don’t follow office hours — especially during holidays and winter travel peaks.

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing:

• Immediate medical case reviews
• Rapid Fit to Fly assessments
• Transparent pricing and timelines
• Compassionate support for families under stress

Whether you’re travelling, visiting family abroad, or supporting a loved one overseas, we’re here to help you navigate the process safely and confidently.

Trusted Global Medical Repatriation Support

From Europe and North America to Asia, Africa, and beyond, AD Medical Air Assist provides trusted, professional, and patient-focused medical repatriation services worldwide.

If you or a loved one becomes ill while travelling this winter, speak to our team today — we’ll guide you through every step, from medical assessment to safe arrival home.