Pilot Illness Forces Lot Airlines Flight to Make Emergency Landing in Milan

A Lot Polish Airlines flight carrying 189 passengers and six crew members was forced to make an emergency landing in Milan early on July 23, 2026. The Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, en route from Mallorca, Spain, to Warsaw, Poland, diverted after the pilot reported feeling unwell.

The medical emergency occurred shortly after 4:00 a.m. when the pilot experienced severe nausea. The plane safely landed at Milan-Malpensa Airport approximately 30 minutes later, where medical personnel, paramedics, and the airport fire brigade were standing by. The pilot received treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.

Although the pilot's condition stabilized, the flight was grounded for several hours to allow for a crew change. The aircraft eventually departed for Warsaw with a replacement crew, ultimately arriving more than 12 hours after its scheduled time. The incident significantly disrupted the journey for passengers, many of whom were returning from holidays on the popular Spanish island.