A tragic incident occurred on a Turkish Airlines flight as a pilot fell ill while en route from Seattle to Istanbul. Captain Ilcehin Pehlivan, 59, collapsed mid-flight, prompting the co-pilot to take over control of the aircraft, according to an airline representative.
Despite attempts at first aid, Captain Pehlivan unfortunately did not survive, and the crew made an emergency landing in New York. Plans were subsequently arranged to transport the passengers to Turkey following the landing.
Captain Pehlivan had been a dedicated member of the Turkish Airlines team since 2007, with a recent health check in early March indicating no issues that would have impacted his flying duties. Turkey’s air traffic controllers’ association extended their condolences to his loved ones, recognizing his long-standing commitment to the aviation community.
