Crime & Safety

3 People, 2 Hours Of CPR Aboard Flight To Hawaii

An Alameda County Fire Dept. firefighter sprang into action on a flight to Hawaii. With a doctor and nurse, they gave CPR for 2 full hours.

Firefighter Joe Bustonera used his emergency training on a flight to Hawaii on Sept. 17, 2021.
Firefighter Joe Bustonera used his emergency training on a flight to Hawaii on Sept. 17, 2021. (Photo Courtesy Alameda County Fire Department Firefighter Joe Bustonera)

ALAMEDA COUNTY, CA — When a flight attendant on a trip to Hawaii made an announcement about a passenger in distress, Alameda County Fire Department Firefighter Joe Bustonera sprang into action.

Over the Pacific Ocean, still two hours away from landing on Maui, Bustonera began CPR on the passenger.

Along with a doctor and nurse who were also on the flight, the chest compressions continued all the way to Hawaii where paramedics and EMTs were waiting for the plane to land.

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Despite the heroic effort, the passenger did not survive.

But according to the fire department, "Family members expressed their gratitude for Firefighter Bustonera’s efforts. His actions exemplify ACFD’s Core Values, including dedication to superior service. Thank you for your service."

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Bustonera was not available for comment on Friday.

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