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Passengers Restrain Pilot During Medical Emergency Mid-Flight
25 Jun
Summary
- Pilot experienced a medical emergency, appearing to have a seizure for 40 minutes.
- Passengers helped restrain the captain after the co-pilot took control.
- The flight was diverted to Boston, landing safely with all 61 passengers.
An Air Canada flight from Newark to Halifax experienced a significant diversion on Wednesday, June 24, when the captain suffered a medical emergency. The aircraft, operated by PAL Airlines, suddenly swerved mid-air, an event passengers distinguished from typical turbulence. The co-pilot assumed control of the plane and rerouted the flight to Boston, Massachusetts, after the captain reportedly experienced a seizure lasting approximately 40 minutes.
During the stressful 40 minutes, passengers bravely stepped in to help. Rodney McDonald, traveling with his family, described how he and four others assisted in restraining the pilot as flight attendants entered the cockpit. The pilot was physically restrained using seatbelts to ensure safety until the aircraft could land. A registered nurse on board also provided assistance.
The flight, carrying 61 passengers, landed safely in Boston around 1:40 p.m. local time. Air Canada confirmed the pilot was taken to a hospital for medical treatment and stated they were assisting affected passengers with new travel arrangements. This incident highlights the critical role passengers and crew play in managing unexpected in-flight emergencies.
