- Irene Jepchirchir Masai, a Kenyan nurse living in the US and a former US Army medic, saved a passenger who crashed on a United Airlines flight to Boston
- Masai quickly administered first aid to the resources available on board, and calmed down the passenger, who was said to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
- United Airlines honored his heroic actions under their “Heroes on Board” program and awarded him a free plane ticket
A nurse from Kenya living in the United States has received many accolades after saving the life of a sick passenger on a United Airlines flight traveling from Brussels to Boston.
Source: Facebook
The nurse, identified as Irene Jepchirchir Masai, a former US Army medic, was returning to Massachusetts after spending the Christmas holidays with her family in Kenya.
According to reports, one passenger suddenly collapsed and became unresponsive, causing panic among the passengers and prompting an emergency call for medical assistance.
Masai acted quickly when the passenger lost consciousness. He examined him and provided first aid using the resources available on the plane, keeping him stable as the journey continued.
He also monitored the passenger’s condition throughout the 24-hour journey, ensuring his well-being, a gesture of compassion that deeply touched other passengers.
The ex-army medic turned a time of fear into one of peace and comfort, earning well-deserved praise from the airline. Additionally, United Airlines officially recognized his bravery through its “Heroes On Board” program.
To thank him for his quick and compassionate actions, he was given a free plane ticket. The airline praised his professionalism, calmness, and life-saving actions.
Who is Irene Jepchirchir Masai?
Born in Kerita, Uasin Gishu County, Masai completed her primary education before attending Moi Girls High School in Eldoret.
He later moved to the United States to further his studies and eventually joined the army as a doctor.
His service as a sergeant in the US Army’s Special Operations Command provided him with advanced clinical training, preparing him to respond decisively under pressure.
“When you are trained to save lives, you don’t wait for a good situation; you act quickly. It was not a choice; it was my responsibility. Everyone was very grateful, you should have seen it, people came to thank me,” Masai shared in a later interview.

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Netizens congratulate Irene Jepchirchir Masai
Netizens and fellow travelers praised Masai for his professionalism, dedication, and life-saving expertise, with many expressing pride in his heroic act.
Dzombo Mwero:
“The best gift you can give your daughter is education. Congratulations to our Kenyan hero.”
Lwose Giana:
“Amen. Irene’s selfless act is a testament to her character and medical expertise. She truly saved the day!”
Japheth Ng’ojoy:
“Well done, Chirie Masai! I’m so proud of you, my friend. You were in the right place at the right time.”
Did a Frontier Airlines passenger give birth in midair?
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported that an unusual but beautiful moment happened aboard a Frontier Airlines flight when a passenger gave birth mid-flight.
The passenger went into unexpected labor, forcing the flight attendant, identified as Diana Giraldo, to act quickly.
Diana led the woman to the back of the toilet and helped her through the process, earning praise from passengers and crew.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke
