Incident Details
On the short final approach for landing, the co-pilot was flying the aircraft but experienced difficulty maintaining the glideslope and airspeeds. The co-pilot subsequently stopped flying the aircraft. At approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL), the captain assumed control and landed the aircraft without further incident.
Medical Response
After landing, medical assistance was requested and received from the cabin and gate crew. The co-pilot exhibited rapid breathing, a weak pulse, cold sweat, and severe trembling. Medics observed the co-pilot for 30 minutes before the co-pilot went home.
Subsequent Findings
The co-pilot was removed from flight status and underwent a medical examination. The event was diagnosed as related to stress, emotion, and fatigue. The co-pilot later returned to flight status with a line check captain, but performance was sub-standard due to similar symptoms. A further medical examination was conducted, during which the co-pilot admitted heavy use of alcohol. The subsequent diagnosis was anxiety disorder complicated by alcohol abuse. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revoked the co-pilot's first-class medical certificate, citing alcoholism. No toxicology tests were conducted at the time of the incident; therefore, the specific cause of the incapacitation remains undetermined.