CALGARY- An off-duty pilot traveling as a passenger on a WestJet (WS) flight assisted in controlling a Boeing 737 MAX after the First Officer became incapacitated. The incident highlights the importance of having qualified individuals on board during emergencies.
The WestJet flight from Calgary (YYC) to Vancouver (YVR) landed safely, with no emergency declared, thanks to the quick thinking of the off-duty pilot and the Captain’s calm handling of the situation, PYOK flagged.
Off-Duty Pilot Lands WestJet Plane
On December 4, 2024, WestJet flight WS129 departed Calgary at 9:21 pm for a routine trip to Vancouver.
During the flight, the First Officer reported feeling unwell, and rapidly becoming incapacitated, as noted by the Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB).
Such situations typically warrant an emergency declaration to ensure a swift landing. Fortunately, an off-duty pilot traveling as a passenger offered assistance.
This individual replaced the ailing First Officer in the cockpit, ensuring the flight continued smoothly.
The incapacitated First Officer was relocated to the cabin for the remainder of the journey, receiving attention from the crew and passengers.
Despite the situation, the Captain opted against declaring an emergency or requesting priority landing clearance.
The aircraft landed safely in Vancouver without further incident, showcasing the professionalism and adaptability of the flight crew and the assisting off-duty pilot.
Similar Incidents
This incident is not isolated. Off-duty pilots often commute as passengers, and there have been other notable examples of such interventions.
For instance, in 2023, a Southwest Airlines (WN) pilot assisted during a Las Vegas flight when the Captain suffered from severe stomach issues. After verifying credentials, the assisting pilot successfully helped land the plane.
In another case, an off-duty Air Canada pilot stepped in when the First Officer became incapacitated on a domestic flight from Toronto (YYZ) to St. John’s.
These incidents emphasize the aviation industry’s reliance on robust protocols and the professionalism of off-duty pilots in emergencies.
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