Endotracheal intubation and Macintosh laryngoscopes have been long accepted as the gold standard for airway management. Recent advancements in video technology have led to the development of indirect video laryngoscopes, thus avoiding the need for direct visualization of the vocal cords. Tracheal intubation can be rapidly and safely accomplished during active chest compressions by indirect video laryngoscopes with endotracheal tube guides. Supraglottic airway devices have been widely accepted as the standard airway device in anesthetic practice, especially in Europe and the USA. These devices have proven useful not only in difficult airway management but to secure the airway during CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and hospital rapid response systems. Further developments in technology and devices are anticipated to improve patient safety and curative efficacy.