A Turkish Airlines pilot, Captain Ilcehin Pehlivan, 59, tragically died after falling ill during a flight from Seattle to Istanbul. According to reports, Pehlivan collapsed mid-flight, and a second pilot along with the co-pilot took over control.
“When first aid for our captain was unsuccessful, the cabin crew… decided to make an emergency landing, but he died before landing,” said airline spokesperson Yahya Ustun.
The Airbus A350 made an emergency landing in New York. Passengers were later arranged to continue their journey to Turkey.
Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had passed a routine medical check in March, which showed no health concerns. The Turkish Air Traffic Controllers Association (TATCA) expressed condolences, acknowledging his many years of service.
The cause of Pehlivan’s death has not yet been disclosed. Pilots over 40 must renew their medical certificates every six months.
