Memorandum of Understanding Signed at AACO 5th Technical Forum -- MedAire, an International SOS company, attended the Arab Air Carriers Organization’s (AACO) 5th Technical Forum in Cairo Nov. 10-12, and in the presence of key senior representatives of AACO’s 24 Arab Airlines, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). As a direct result of the MOU, MedAire will provide AACO airline members with guidance and recommendations regarding international medical regulations, as well as discounts and special package pricing to Arab carriers.

An aviation specialty company of International SOS, MedAire is the leading provider of remote medical solutions for 80 of the world’s commercial airlines. AACO member airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways already take advantage of MedAire offerings, which include:

• MedLink In-Flight – a 24/7 emergency medical hotline that helps airlines reduce risk and avoid unnecessary diversions as crew are connected to emergency doctors and communication specialists during in-flight medical emergencies.

• Passenger Fit-to-Fly Service – airline gate agents work with MedAire’s medical professionals to assess passengers’ health and the ability to fly - often preventing in-flight medical emergencies from happening.

• Crew Support – when crewmembers on duty travel have 24/7 access to advice from doctors and registered nurses, including medical referrals, guaranteed payments, prescription drug assistance and more. The airline saves costs thanks to negotiated discounts, while also minimizing crew schedule disruptions and ensuring timely departures.

• Train-the-Trainer Program – comprehensive medical training to airline instructors who then impart that knowledge to cabin crew through internal training.

• Crisis Management Support – provision of on-site expert teams designed to complement local support services during an aircraft disaster or mass casualty event through medical intervention and evacuation assistance.

• Medical Equipment – kits engineered to help crewmembers deal with medical emergencies that commonly occur in the aviation environment.

• International SOS Corporate Security Service and Travel Locator Services – a 24/7 access to security expertise for crewmembers and passengers traveling to locations with potential security risks. "AACO is to be praised for initiating this MOU,” said Grant Jeffery, MedAire CEO. ”Its creation signals the importance that AACO carriers place on medical preparedness and safety – as well as a commitment to global standards. Our services and more than 20 years of experience are the perfect complement to the growing Arab aviation industry.”

"Such an MOU with MedAire, the aviation arm of International SOS, shall enable AACO contracted member carriers to benefit from a wide range of professional services," said Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary General of AACO. "Again, this ascertains our members' commitment to safety as being one of their top priorities."