In a tragic turn of events, a Turkish Airlines flight from Seattle to Istanbul was forced to make an emergency landing at New York’s JFK International Airport after its pilot collapsed mid-flight.
The incident occurred on Tuesday during flight TK204, which had taken off just hours earlier.
According to an official statement from the airline, the pilot, identified as 59-year-old Ilcehin Pehlivan, collapsed unexpectedly during the flight.
Airline spokesperson Yahya Ustun shared details on social media platform X, noting that efforts to administer first aid were unsuccessful. The flight’s crew, consisting of another pilot and a co-pilot, quickly decided to divert the aircraft to New York.
“Despite their best efforts, our captain unfortunately passed away before we could land,” Ustun reported.
Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had recently passed a medical examination in March, with no prior indications of health issues noted by the airline.
Passengers onboard reported a sense of shock and concern as the flight was redirected over Canada to JFK. Fortunately, the aircraft landed safely, and the remaining passengers were subsequently able to continue their journey to Turkey from New York.
The incident has left the Turkish Airlines community mourning. Ustun expressed condolences in his statement, saying, “As the Turkish Airlines family, we wish God’s mercy upon our captain and patience to his grieving family, all his colleagues, and loved ones.”
This unfortunate event raises questions about pilot health and safety in the aviation industry, prompting discussions on the protocols in place for managing in-flight medical emergencies.
As investigations continue, the airline remains committed to supporting Pehlivan’s family and crew during this difficult time.