What happened
On 9 October 2013, a scheduled passenger flight operated by a Boeing 737-8AS, registration EI-DCN, was en route from East Midlands Airport to Tenerife South when the commander began experiencing health issues. Initially, the pilot noted a headache following a recent minor illness. As the aircraft approached the northern coast of Spain, the commander's condition deteriorated, leading to a brief period of unconsciousness.
Upon the commander's loss of consciousness, the co-pilot immediately assumed command of the aircraft. To manage the situation, the co-pilot notified the senior cabin crew member and activated the passenger seat-belt sign to prepare the cabin for a potential emergency. After the commander regained consciousness, the crew evaluated the situation and decided to divert the flight to Faro Airport. The co-pilot declared an emergency with Lisbon Air Traffic Control and coordinated the descent and approach.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events following the commander's sudden illness. It was established that the commander had been recovering from a light cold prior to the flight. During the period of incapacitation, the co-pilot effectively implemented Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles by briefing the cabin crew, checking weather conditions at the diversion airport, and informing the passengers of the situation. The investigation also noted that the commander eventually returned to the flight deck to assist with the remainder of the flight, positioning his seat to avoid any accidental interference with the aircraft controls.
Findings
- The commander experienced a sudden medical episode that resulted in brief loss of consciousness.
- The co-pilot successfully managed the emergency by assuming command and executing a coordinated diversion.
- The flight landed safely at Faro Airport, where medical personnel were waiting to treat the commander.
- There were no injuries to the 167 passengers or the remaining crew members, and no damage was sustained by the aircraft.