ATLANTA, GA — What started as a routine Delta flight from Atlanta to Tucson turned into a moment of high tension — until 69-year-old Atlanta resident Nicole Pruitt stepped in and saved the day.
Passengers aboard the cross-country flight are calling Pruitt a hero after she sprang into action mid-flight when a fellow traveler experienced a medical emergency. Witnesses say a man seated near the rear of the plane collapsed unexpectedly, losing consciousness shortly after takeoff. Panic spread quickly — until Nicole calmly rose from her seat and took control.
A retired nurse with more than 30 years of experience, Pruitt immediately assessed the man’s vital signs, instructed flight attendants on how to assist, and administered emergency care using the plane’s onboard medical kit. Her quick thinking and calm demeanor helped stabilize the passenger until the flight could be diverted to Dallas for medical assistance.
“She was so composed, like she’d done this a thousand times,” said one passenger seated nearby. “We didn’t know what was happening at first, but she took control in a way that made us all feel safe.”
Once on the ground, paramedics confirmed that the man was in stable condition — and credited Nicole’s fast response with potentially saving his life.
Delta Airlines released a statement praising her actions:
“We are incredibly grateful to Ms. Nicole Pruitt for her courageous and selfless actions. Her professionalism and compassion reflect the very best of humanity.”
Fellow passengers gave her a round of applause as she returned to her seat, some even calling her “The Angel of Row 14.”
Nicole Pruitt, who said she was just “doing what came naturally,” humbly deflected the praise. But for those on that flight, her actions were nothing short of extraordinary.