Taipei, July 3 (CNA) National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) and EVA Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today to officially launch the "Airborne Good Samaritan" program. This initiative aims to enhance in-flight medical capabilities and enlist volunteer NTUH physicians who will act as health guardians should a passenger experience discomfort during a flight. International travel has become commonplace. According to the latest statistics from the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the number of Taiwanese travelers going abroad from January to April this year reached 7,121,102, an increase of 19.3% compared to the same period last year. Japan remains the top destination, with 37.3% of travelers visiting the country. In addition to young people embarking on grand adventures abroad, many middle-aged and elderly individuals are enjoying vibrant post-retirement lives, traveling the world with friends. In response to this growing demand, NTUH and EVA Air signed an MOU today to officially launch the "Airborne Good Samaritan" program, deepening travel medicine care. Travel medicine clinics offer more than just "vaccinations." Dr. Li Yi-hsuan from NTUH's Department of Family Medicine explained during a presentation that the clinic provides comprehensive pre-travel consultations. Based on a traveler's personal medical history and medication records, combined with detailed itinerary information, destination season, and special activities, a personalized disease prevention plan is created. Beyond pre-travel consultations, the aircraft cabin environment presents physiological challenges. Dr. Cheng Shao-yi, Director of NTUH's Department of Family Medicine, humorously recalled experiencing three flights within six months, each time coinciding with an in-flight call for medical assistance. While most cases involved elderly passengers feeling unwell due to air pressure changes, there is indeed a need to strengthen medical equipment.