Incident Overview
On 1 January 2003, a Boeing 777-236 (registration G-YMMH) operated a public transport flight from Montreal to London. The aircraft was carrying 149 passengers and 14 crew members. No injuries were sustained by any persons on board, and no damage occurred to the aircraft.
Sequence of Events
After an uneventful departure, with the first officer as the handling pilot, the aircraft was established in cruise. Shortly thereafter, the first officer informed the commander he felt unwell and needed to use the toilet. The commander assumed handling duties and called a cabin attendant to the flight deck before the first officer left. Approximately 30 minutes later, the first officer returned and reported he had vomited but now felt well enough to continue duties. He took his normal seat, but the commander retained handling and radio duties. Neither pilot had eaten since boarding. The commander noted that both pilots had eaten at different locations during the stopover in Canada.
Some time later, while G-YMMH was established on track over the Atlantic, the first officer again indicated he felt unwell and needed to leave the flight deck. The commander then asked the Cabin Services Director (CSD) to join him on the flight deck, as the CSD held a Private Pilot Licence and an R/T licence. Shortly after, the commander was informed the first officer had vomited again and was resting in the cabin.
The commander contacted Medilink for advice on the first officer's condition and whether a diversion was necessary. Medilink provided advice on suitable medication and stated an immediate diversion did not appear necessary. Given poor weather on the eastern coast of North America, the commander decided to continue to the United Kingdom. After medication, the first officer remained in the cabin, and the CSD stayed on the flight deck. The commander also contacted his company operations via HF radio, informed them of the situation, and requested assistance on arrival at London Heathrow (LHR).
Following initial contact with Shanwick Control, a "PAN" was declared, and, according to company policy, single-crew operation was also declared. Subsequently, G-YMMH received direct routing culminating in an automatic landing on Runway 09R at LHR. The Airline Flight Services (AFS) met the aircraft, but no immediate assistance was required. The commander continued to the allocated parking stand for an uneventful shutdown. Once on stand, the first officer returned to the flight deck, assisted with shutdown and secure checks, and left the aircraft unaided.