What is an AED used for in aviation?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) plays a crucial role in aviation safety by providing essential medical assistance during in-flight emergencies, particularly in the case of cardiac arrest. The AED is designed to analyze a victim's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock to restore a normal rhythm.

Having an AED on board is critical because cardiac emergencies can occur at any time, and timely intervention can significantly increase a person's chances of survival. This device is user-friendly and equipped with clear audio and visual prompts, making it accessible to non-medical trained personnel, such as flight attendants, ensuring that assistance can be provided quickly and effectively.

The other options, while related to emergency situations, do not accurately describe the function of an AED in aviation. For instance, "Automatic Emergency Defibrillator" is incorrect terminology, as the correct version is "Automated External Defibrillator." The terms "Aviation Emergency Device" and "Airline Evacuation Device" do not correspond to the specific medical context of the AED, focusing instead on general emergency or evacuation procedures rather than the critical response to cardiac issues.