Lie-flat flight - comparison of existing solutions
Not everyone can fly sitting up. The sick, the injured, the elderly in complex conditions, patients after surgery – all of these need a solution that allows them to fly fully lying down. To this end, there are three main routes: a VIP flight on a private jet, a flight in an adapted business class, or a flight on a stretcher on a commercial flight. In this article, we will examine the differences, advantages, and suitability of each route for different needs.
Solution 1: Flying in a lie-flat position in a private jet (executive jet)
Who is this suitable for?
People with complex medical conditions who want complete privacy
High-risk patients who are not suitable for commercial flight
VIP customers with a high budget
Advantages:
✅ Full control over the schedule
✅ Takeoff and landing from more flexible airports
✅ Medical bed, advanced equipment, private medical team
✅ A quiet, sterile and discreet experience
Disadvantages:
🔴 Very high cost (may reach tens of thousands of dollars)
🔴 Lower availability in peripheral countries
When do you choose this?
When the medical condition is critical, the budget is high, or when there is a demand for very urgent flights to countries without regular commercial flights.
Solution 2: Flying in a semi-reclining position – in business class with medical escort
Who is this suitable for?
Patients who need comfortable but not absolute recumbency
People after surgery, recovering, or with functional difficulties
Patients who want improved comfort but at an affordable price
Advantages:
✅ Beds open almost to a lying position
✅ Significantly lower cost compared to a private jet
✅ Possibility of being accompanied by a paramedic or nurse
✅ High availability on international flights
Disadvantages:
🔴 No option for full reclining or advanced equipment
🔴 Depends on the aircraft structure and the availability of seats in the class
When do you choose this?
When the patient is stable, they need to lie comfortably but have some flexibility that does not require total recumbency.
Solution 3: Flying lying down on a stretcher on a commercial flight
Who is this suitable for?
Stable patients who require complete recumbency
Injured after surgeries
Patients who cannot sit at all
How does it work?
On select commercial flights, 6–9 seats can be removed and a stretcher installed, complete with a privacy curtain, medical escort, and equipment hookup.
Advantages:
✅ Full recline
✅ Professional medical support
✅ Relatively low cost compared to an ambulance flight
Disadvantages:
🔴 Complex approval process with the airline
🔴 Requires advance booking a few days in advance
🔴 Availability varies by destination and aircraft
When do you choose this?
When the flight can be delayed for several days, the patient's condition is stable but does not allow sitting, and full recumbency is necessary at a comfortable cost.
Who we are – Paramedic
At Paramedical, we specialize in medical flights, patient repatriations to Israel, and medical escorts on international flights. We offer three routes – personalized, with medical consultation with an Israeli doctor, consideration of the medical condition, budget, and availability.
✅ Free consultation call
✅ Trained medical staff (paramedics, nurses, doctors)
✅ Fast and discreet service – even within 24–48 hours
✅ Possibility to operate even from complex countries (with foreign passports)
Call now or leave your details in the form and we will get back to you for a free consultation with a flight specialist.
❓ Frequently asked questions about lying down
What is the difference between flying in a private jet and flying with a stretcher?
A private jet is a complete medical solution with staff, equipment, and flexible availability. A stretcher on a commercial flight is a more affordable customized solution but requires prior coordination and does not provide the same comfort and privacy.
Is business class suitable for lying down flights?
Yes. Lie-Flat business class chairs are very comfortable for patients. Sometimes even more so than a stretcher in terms of accessibility, privacy, and quality medical care.
Is it possible to receive medical treatment in business class?
Yes. The patient can be accompanied by a paramedic or nurse, and ongoing care, oxygen, medications, and medical monitoring can be provided as needed.
How far in advance do you need to arrange a flight with a stretcher?
At least 48–72 hours, as coordination with the airline, changing seat positions, and installing appropriate equipment are required.
What is the most comfortable solution for flying in a lie-flat position?
The answer depends on the medical needs. Business class sometimes offers the best balance between comfort, care, and cost, while a stretcher is appropriate for critical situations, and a private jet is the most luxurious and personalized solution.