In Memoriam: Prof. Dr. med. Jochen Hinkelbein

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt sympathy that we have learned of the tragic passing of Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Jochen Hinkelbein, following a devastating aircraft accident on 21 March 2025. We are deeply shocked by this terrible loss, and our thoughts are with his family — especially his daughter, who has survived serious injuries — as well as with all those who knew and worked alongside him.

Prof. Hinkelbein was an outstanding physician, scientist, and leader whose pioneering work in aviation and aerospace medicine was felt far beyond Germany. He shaped the field with vision, dedication, and excellence through his research, teaching, and clinical practice. His deep contributions to airway management, hypoxia, emergency medicine, and aerospace medical concepts have impacted anaesthesiology and beyond.

Within the ESAIC community, Prof. Hinkelbein was a highly respected colleague and Fellow whose contributions to European medicine extended over many years. We appreciate his generosity of spirit, integrity, and humility in carrying out his achievements. He was truly a remarkable physician and a person of immense kindness.

On behalf of the ESAIC Board of Directors and our entire society, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to you, his friends and colleagues at the German Society for Aerospace Medicine, and his loved ones. Please know that we mourn with you in solidarity and deep respect.

In Jochen’s memory, we honour his legacy — one marked by excellence, humanity, and service.

With deepest sympathy,

Signed on behalf of the ESAIC Board of Directors
Prof. Wolfgang Buhre, ESAIC President