Pilot Incapacitated Before Landing, Co-pilot Lands EasyJet Plane Safely

An EasyJet passenger jet made a safe landing after one of its pilots became unwell just before touching down at Keflavík Airport. The co-pilot took control and landed the aircraft without further incident, prompting a response from emergency services.

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I don't recall a specific case, but this has happened before. It seems to have happened during a critical phase of flight; during approach. There are cases where one of the pilots becomes incapacitated for some reason.

Jóhannes Bjarni Guðmundsson, an Icelandair pilot and chairman of the safety committee for the Icelandic Airline Pilots' Association (FÍA), commented on the event. He noted that while he couldn't recall a specific instance, similar situations have occurred in aviation. He explained that if one pilot becomes incapacitated, the other must manage the flight, whether during approach or at high altitude, and divert to the nearest suitable airport if necessary.

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There are two people flying, and as long as that is the case, something like this, human-related, can always happen.

Guðmundsson emphasized that stringent health requirements and regular medical check-ups for pilots are in place for good reason. He also highlighted the importance of crew members being well-rested and fit for duty, acknowledging that unforeseen events can still happen. He mentioned that Icelandair regularly practices such scenarios in flight simulators, including situations where a pilot becomes unable to perform their duties. The association also has protocols, such as ensuring crew members do not eat the same meals onboard, to mitigate risks like food poisoning, which has incapacitated pilots in the past.

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There is a reason why strict health requirements are made for this profession. Pilots must undergo regular examinations, which is very good all around. People's responsibility is also great; to show up fit and rested for duty. Of course, something like this can always happen.