Turkish Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in New York After Pilot's Death

Photo : AP

A Turkish Airlines flight traveling from Seattle to Istanbul was forced to make an emergency landing in New York on Wednesday after the captain collapsed mid-flight. The incident occurred shortly after Flight 204 took off from Seattle on Tuesday night.

Pilot Ilcehin Pehlivan, 59, lost consciousness during the flight, prompting the crew to initiate emergency protocols. According to a statement from a Turkish Airlines spokesperson, efforts to revive Pehlivan were unsuccessful despite immediate medical intervention. Following the captain’s incapacitation, the second pilot and a co-pilot quickly took control of the aircraft to ensure a safe landing.

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The flight was rerouted to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, where it landed safely without further incident. Passengers aboard the flight were understandably shaken but were reported to be unharmed. Emergency medical personnel met the aircraft upon landing to provide assistance, but unfortunately, the captain was pronounced dead shortly after.

Turkish Airlines expressed condolences to Pehlivan’s family and colleagues, emphasizing the tragic nature of the event. The airline is cooperating with authorities as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the pilot's sudden medical emergency.

This incident highlights the challenges faced in aviation when unexpected health emergencies occur, especially regarding the well-being of flight crews responsible for the safety of passengers in the air.