Introduction
On 18 January 2015, at 08:38 UTC, an Airbus A320-200, registration D-AICI, operated by Condor Flugdienst, declared an emergency while cruising at flight level 370 approximately 60 nautical miles northeast of Lisbon. The flight, originating from Hamburg (EDDH) and destined for Arrecife-Lanzarote (GCRR), had 144 persons on board (2 crew, 4 cabin crew, 138 passengers).
Sequence of Events
The emergency declaration was due to the incapacitation of the copilot (MAYDAY … copilot incapacitation). The commander of flight CFD7438 decided to divert to Faro as the weather conditions at Lisbon (LPPT) were adverse for single-pilot operations (LVO). During the diversion, while operating solo, the commander informed the cabin crew, passengers, and operations about the changes to the flight. He also requested medical assistance for the copilot upon arrival at Faro.
Weather Conditions
At 09:00 UTC, the weather at Faro was reported as: wind variable at 2 knots, visibility 10 km or more, light showers with 3 to 4 oktas of clouds at 1000 feet and 1500 feet, air temperature 13°C, dew point 13°C, atmospheric pressure 1010 mbar.
Outcome
The aircraft landed normally at Faro at approximately 09:16 UTC. After landing, the copilot was assisted by a medical team. As no improvement was observed, he was subsequently transported to a hospital in Faro. The incident resulted in no injuries and no damage to the aircraft.