Turkish Airlines pilot dies mid-flight, prompting emergency landing in New York

The 59-year-old pilot had worked for Turkish Airlines since 2007, with no reported health issues.

A Turkish Airlines pilot died after collapsing in the cockpit during a flight, prompting an emergency landing in New York, the airline confirmed on Wednesday.

The Airbus A350 aircraft, operating flight TK204, had taken off from Seattle on Tuesday evening and was en route to Istanbul.

According to Turkish Airlines spokesman Yahya Ustun, the pilot fainted during the flight, and medical assistance was administered immediately.

However, despite the efforts of the flight crew, which included a co-pilot and an additional pilot, the situation proved fatal.

"The pilot of our Airbus A350 collapsed during the flight," Ustun stated on social media platform X.

"After an unsuccessful attempt to administer first aid, the flight crew decided to make an emergency landing, but he died before reaching the ground."

The aircraft diverted to New York, and the airline is making arrangements for the passengers to continue their journey from there. Ustun expressed condolences to the pilot's family and colleagues, stating, "As the Turkish Airlines family, we wish God's mercy on our captain and patience to all his colleagues and loved ones, especially his grieving family."

The deceased pilot, aged 59, had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had recently passed a routine medical examination at the Aviation Medical Center, certified by the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, with no health concerns reported.