A routine flight from George to Johannesburg took an unexpected turn when passengers on board a FlySafair plane were asked to help in the cockpit.
As the aircraft neared O.R. Tambo International Airport, an announcement was made requesting any qualified pilot on board to assist, as the captain had fallen ill mid-flight.
The co-pilot, fully trained and capable of flying the plane solo, took control of the situation. As a precautionary measure, the request for assistance was made to ensure maximum safety. The first officer, with priority landing clearance, successfully brought the plane down without incident.
While the co-pilot handled the flight, a qualified passenger entered the cockpit to assist by reading the checklist aloud to ensure proper procedures were followed. The passenger never took control of the aircraft.
FlySafair commended its first officer for maintaining professionalism in the face of adversity, and the airline expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the assisting passenger and the calm demeanour of everyone involved. The captain received immediate medical attention upon landing at O.R. Tambo International.
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Picture: FlySafair / Facebook
Words: Louise Bell / Getaway
