A Turkish Airlines pilot tragically died mid-flight, forcing an emergency landing in New York nearly 3,000 miles from the intended destination.
The Airbus A350-900, which departed from Seattle bound for Istanbul, was diverted to John F. Kennedy International Airport early Tuesday morning.
The 59-year-old captain, identified as Ilcehin Pehlivan, collapsed during the journey, prompting the crew to attempt first aid.
Despite their efforts, the pilot died before the aircraft could safely touch down in New York at approximately 6am local time.
A Turkish Airlines Boeing 777 plane (file pic)
PA
Turkish Airlines spokesman Yahya Ustun provided details of the incident on social media.
He wrote: "After an unsuccessful attempt to give first aid, the flight crew of another pilot and a co-pilot decided to make an emergency landing, but he died before landing."
The airline's statement highlighted the swift action taken by the remaining crew members to ensure passenger safety.
Flight tracking data from FlightAware showed the aircraft making an extreme turn towards New York whilst flying over northern Canada, illustrating the sudden change in flight path necessitated by the medical emergency.
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JFK Airport in New York CityWikiCommonsCaptain Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007, demonstrating a long-standing career with the carrier.
The airline spokesman noted that the pilot had undergone a routine medical examination in March, which revealed no health issues that would have affected his ability to fly.
"The 59-year-old pilot... had passed a medical examination in March, which gave no indication of any health problems," Ustun stated.
The incident has shocked the aviation community, with Turkey's air traffic controllers' association TATCA offering condolences to Pehlivan's family, friends and colleagues.
The Airbus A350 landed safely at JFK airport shortly before 6am local time. Turkish Airlines has since made arrangements to continue the passengers' journey to Istanbul.
The incident has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from the aviation community. Ustun expressed the airline's condolences, stating: "We wish God's mercy upon our captain and patience to his grieving family, all his colleagues and loved ones."
