NEW YORK- Turkish Airlines (TK) experienced a tragic incident during flight TK204 from
Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Istanbul Airport (IST) when a pilot died mid-flight, leading to an emergency landing in New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
The airline’s spokesman, Yahya Üstün, confirmed the event on social media platform X on Wednesday (October 9, 2024).
Turkish Airlines Pilot Died
The Airbus A350 departed from Seattle on Tuesday evening. During the flight, the pilot suddenly collapsed, prompting immediate action from the crew. Despite attempts to administer first aid, the efforts proved unsuccessful.
The remaining flight crew, consisting of another pilot and a co-pilot, made the decision to divert the aircraft and perform an emergency landing.
Tragically, the pilot, aged 59, passed away before the plane could reach its emergency destination.
The deceased pilot had been employed with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had recently undergone a medical examination in March, which had not indicated any health concerns.
Üstün expressed condolences on behalf of the airline, stating, “As the Turkish Airlines family, we wish God’s mercy upon our captain and patience to his grieving family, all his colleagues and loved ones.”
The aviation community and Turkish Airlines are likely to conduct a thorough investigation into this tragic event to determine if any additional safety measures or health protocols need to be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Similar Incidents
Last year, LATAM Airlines (LA) flight 505 from Miami (MIA) to Santiago de Chile (SCL) experienced a critical incident when one of its Captains became incapacitated mid-flight. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner departed Miami International Airport at approximately 10:00 pm.
Three hours into the flight, the Captain reportedly left the cockpit feeling unwell and collapsed in the lavatory. Flight attendants immediately initiated emergency life support measures, including CPR.
The incident prompted an emergency diversion to Tocumen Airport in Panama. Medical personnel awaited the aircraft’s arrival to address the situation. Despite the crew’s efforts, local media and Aviation Herald reports indicate the Captain was declared deceased upon landing in Panama.
Similarly, an off-duty Air Canada (AC) flight from Toronto (YYZ) to St John’s (YYT) experienced a critical incident on June 7 when the first officer became incapacitated mid-flight. The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) confirmed the event on Friday.
A deadheading captain, traveling as a passenger to a new assignment, intervened to replace the incapacitated crew member. The off-duty pilot assumed the first officer’s responsibilities, guiding the aircraft to a safe landing.
Emergency medical services awaited the aircraft at the gate, provided immediate assistance to the incapacitated crew member.
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