Casualties unknown

Copilot Incapacitated on Final Approach, Later Found to Have Brain Lesion (N857H)

Denver, CO, US

On March 25, 1982, a Gulfstream G159-C (registration N857H) operated by U.s. Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Denver, CO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A copilot became incapacitated while reading the final approach checklist. The captain landed uneventfully. After deplaning, the copilot suffered a seizure. Hospital tests revealed a calcium deposit behind the right ear pressing on the brain; chemotherapy resolved the issue.

Incident

During the final approach of a routine flight, the copilot suddenly became incapacitated while reviewing the final approach checklist. The captain, who was flying the aircraft, continued the approach and executed an uneventful landing. After the aircraft arrived at the gate and all passengers had deplaned, the copilot experienced a seizure while being assisted down the aircraft steps by the captain and a flight attendant.

Medical Findings

The copilot was transported to a hospital, where medical tests identified a calcium deposit located behind the right ear. This deposit was applying pressure to the brain. The copilot's last Class I medical examination had been conducted two months prior to the incident.

Outcome

A chemotherapy program was administered, which eventually resolved the medical condition. The copilot's recovery allowed for a return to normal health, as the calcium deposit no longer posed a threat.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Mar 1982 Gulfstream G159-C accident near Denver, CO?

A copilot became incapacitated while reading the final approach checklist. The captain landed uneventfully. After deplaning, the copilot suffered a seizure. Hospital tests revealed a calcium deposit behind the right ear pressing on the brain; chemotherapy resolved the issue.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Mar 1982 involved a Gulfstream G159-C, registration N857H, operated by U.s. Aviation, at Denver, CO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X01989. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.