Plane forced to make emergency landing after pilot collapses and dies during flight
A plane was forced to make an emergency landing after one of its pilots collapsed.
The terrifying incident happen mid-flight as the aircraft headed from Miami to Chile earlier this month.
Despite the flight being a routine trip, the Chilean pilot would never reach his final destination and tragically died after a sudden illness.
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Flight LA 505 had started much like any other, with 271 passengers boarding the plane before it left Miami International Airport at around 11pm (local time).
Three hours into the journey pilot Iván Andaur began to complain of feeling ‘ill’.
It is still unclear what happened to the pilot, but his health rapidly began to decline with a medic later describing his symptoms as similar to a cardiac arrest.
Despite having served in the Chilean Air Force and being an experienced commercial pilot, his two colleagues were forced to take over as his condition worsened.
According to The Sun, the cabin crew even asked if there was a doctor onboard as the horrifying incident occurred just forty minutes after take-off.
It was then decided that the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner would make an emergency landing in Panama City.
Having safely arrived at Tocumen International Airport, the 56-year-old was treated by paramedics and doctors.
Sadly though, Andaur succumbed to his sudden illness.
In a statement, the airline told the press: “At LATAM we are deeply moved by what happened and we extend our most sincere condolences to the family of our collaborator.
“We are deeply grateful for his 25-year career and his valuable contribution, who has always stood out for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment.”
His colleague, Captain Paula Mandini, also paid tribute to the late pilot on Facebook, writing: “I have many memories of flights, conversations and so many things... I have a giant lump in my throat.
“I only hope that you are with your Vero and from heaven you give strength to your daughter..!!!!! Fly high..!!!!!'
For all you frequent flyers out there, please be assured that this is still a pretty rare occurrence though.
Topics: Travel, World News
Katherine Sidnell