A Turkish Airlines flight made an emergency landing in New York after pilot İlçehin Pehlivan died mid-flight. The 59-year-old captain fainted shortly after takeoff from Seattle. Despite attempts to revive him, he succumbed to his medical emergency, leading to the diversion for passenger safety.
A Turkish Airlines flight heading to Istanbul was forced to make an emergency landing in New York after the captain, İlçehin Pehlivan, suffered a fatal medical episode mid-flight. The incident occurred on Wednesday shortly after the plane departed from Seattle.
According to a Turkish Airlines spokesperson, the crew attempted emergency treatment for the 59-year-old pilot but were unable to revive him. The cockpit crew, consisting of a captain and a co-pilot, decided to divert the aircraft to New York when the initial medical interventions proved ineffective. Tragically, Pehlivan passed away before the plane could safely land.
Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had recently passed a medical evaluation, indicating no prior health issues. The airline expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their captain, extending condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends.
Passengers were provided with arrangements to connect to their flight to Istanbul after the incident. The situation has drawn attention to the challenges faced in aviation and the importance of emergency protocols, particularly in unexpected medical emergencies. The airline's quick response helped ensure the safety of all other passengers aboard during this tragic event.
