Incident Overview
While en route to Jackson, Michigan, the owner and pilot of the aircraft suffered an apparent heart attack. The sole passenger, who held a private pilot certificate, took control of the aircraft and executed a safe landing at Lansing, Michigan.
Pilot Background
The pilot's wife stated that he possessed a pilot certificate but was unable to locate it. However, according to Federal Aviation Administration records, there was no evidence that the pilot had ever been issued an FAA pilot or medical certificate. The passenger's last medical certificate was issued prior to 1973.
Medical Examination
A postmortem pathological examination of the pilot revealed severe atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including evidence of an old myocardial infarction. A toxicological analysis of the pilot's blood detected a low level of alcohol (0.031%). No relationship was established between alcohol consumption and the heart attack.
Outcome
The aircraft landed without further incident. No information was provided regarding injuries or damage to the aircraft.