Synopsis
On 2 May 2018, at 04:13 local time, a Boeing 737-43Q (SF) aircraft, registration HS-KMA, operated by K-Mile Air Company Limited as flight 8K526, experienced a serious incident while en route from Hong Kong International Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The aircraft was carrying five persons, including pilots and aircraft mechanics. At Flight Level 300, the co-pilot, who was serving as pilot flying, suffered convulsions and lost consciousness. This caused the aircraft to momentarily deviate from its intended direction and flight level. The pilot then regained control and landed the aircraft at Suvarnabhumi Airport, canceling the state of emergency at 05:34 local time. The aircraft sustained no damage.
Incident Details
The flight was a commercial cargo operation. During cruise at FL300, the co-pilot experienced a medical event leading to incapacitation. As a result, the aircraft briefly lost its programmed course and altitude. The pilot took over and stabilized the flight, subsequently executing a landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The emergency was declared and later canceled after a safe landing.
Aftermath
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Committee for the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Commission Thailand was notified. A notification was also sent to the French Republic, as the state of aircraft design and manufacture, and to the International Civil Aviation Organization. The investigation remains in progress, with a draft final report prepared as of April 2024. The final report is expected to include the cause of the serious incident and preventive recommendations.
Investigation
The investigation is classified as a serious incident under the category of flight crew incapacitation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Committee is conducting the inquiry. No probable cause has been stated in this interim report.