Who was Barbara DiPoli? Air France passenger who died on flight to Boston identified as Kansas Air National Guard

A transatlantic Air France flight bound for Boston turned tragic when a passenger, later identified as Kansas Air National Guard member Barbara DiPoli, passed away mid-flight on 14 January. While the exact cause of death is not known, officials have reported she suffered a 'medical episode.'

The unexpected incident has drawn attention to the dedicated life she led, both in service to her country and as a respected member of her community. Barbara DiPoli served as a valued member of the Kansas Air National Guard.

Born and raised in Topeka, Kansas, Barbara DiPoli began her military journey in September 2007, joining the Kansas Air National Guard. Over the years, she served with distinction, including at least 22 months in Iraq, where her bravery and leadership earned her respect among her peers. Her father shared that her time in Iraq also left lasting scars, as she developed PTSD and an eating disorder, challenges she faced with courage and determination.

DiPoli climbed the ranks to become a Master Sergeant, a testament to her leadership and commitment. In 2015, she joined the Office of the Command Chief Master Sergeant (OCCM) team as a special assistant, where she helped Airmen gain a deeper understanding of day-to-day operations and fostered their growth as senior noncommissioned officers. By 2022, she had achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, a pinnacle in her military career, before being stationed in Washington, D.C.

After nearly two decades of service, Barbara DiPoli retired in September 2024. She set off to Scotland to mark the beginning of her retirement, a dream she had long held. However, during her time overseas, she fell ill. Barbara’s father, Joseph DiPoli, a U.S. Army and Navy veteran, spoke of his daughter’s resilience and dedication. In a statement to The New York Post, he said:

“No parent should ever have to bury their child. Ever... I could never accomplish in my 34 years in the military — I never came close to accomplishing what she did in 21 years.”

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What happened to Barabara DiPoli, mid-flight?

As reported by The Daily Mail, Barbara DiPoli was on an Air France flight from Paris to Boston on Tuesday. The unexpected medical emergency unfolded shortly after the plane departed Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, leaving passengers and crew in shock.

According to Air France, Dipoli fell ill mid-flight, prompting immediate assistance from a doctor who was onboard. Despite their efforts, including medical intervention by the crew, she could not be revived and was pronounced dead shortly after. In a statement to NBC Boston, an Air France spokesperson said:

"Despite the assistance of a doctor on board, the customer couldn't be rescued. Air France reminds that its crew members are regularly trained to handle these kinds of situations."

When the flight landed at Boston Logan International Airport, emergency crews were on standby. Massachusetts State Police detectives described the death as 'unattended' but have not yet released additional details. Their investigation into the incident is ongoing.