PASSENGER HELPS FLYSAFAIR PLANE TO LAND

While flying from George to Johannesburg, a FlySafair pilot fell ill and a passenger had to assist the co-pilot with landing the plane.

Towards the end of the flight, an announcement was made asking if a qualified pilot was on board. According to FlySafair, this is standard procedure in the aviation industry.

While the captain prepared to descend, he told his co-pilot that he was experiencing discomfort and asked the co-pilot to take full control.

“In line with standard operating procedures, the first officer (co-pilot) – who is fully certified and trained to operate the aircraft independently – assumed command and conducted a seamless landing at OR Tambo International Airport”, FlySafair said.

The passenger assisted the first officer “by reading out the required checklists, although they did not conduct any flying themselves”.

The co-pilot requested a special landing place and the aircraft was then taxied to its parking place. The plane landed safely in Johannesburg and emergency medical personnel were there to help the captain.

“Passengers remained calm and cooperative throughout, disembarking as usual once the aircraft was towed to the designated parking bay.”

Image credit: Cape Town Etc