What happened
On 1 January 2003, a Boeing 777-236, registration G-YMMH, was conducting a scheduled public transport flight from Montreal to London. During the cruise phase over the Atlantic, the first officer notified the commander that he was feeling unwell and left the flight deck. The commander assumed all handling duties and requested a cabin attendant to join the flight deck to assist.
Approximately 30 minutes later, the first officer returned to the cockpit, reporting that he had vomited but felt capable of resuming duties. However, the commander elected to maintain control of the aircraft and radio communications. Shortly thereafter, the first officer again reported feeling unwell and left the flight deck a second time. To ensure safety, the commander requested that the Cabin Services Director, who held a PPL and radio license, join the flight deck.
After the first officer vomited a second time, the commander contacted medical advisory services via 'Medi-link'. Based on medical advice regarding medication and the decision to avoid a diversion due to poor weather conditions on the North American eastern coast, the decision was made to proceed to London Heathrow. The commander notified company operations and declared a 'PAN' and single-crew operation to Shanwick Control. The aircraft subsequently completed an automatic landing at London Heathrow without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation examined the medical condition of the first officer and the decision-making process regarding the continuation of the flight. The inquiry reviewed the communications between the commander, the cabin crew, medical advisory services, and air traffic control. It was noted that the crew had not eaten since boarding the aircraft and had consumed meals at different locations prior to the flight.
Findings
- The first officer suffered from repeated bouts of vomiting during the flight.
- The commander implemented procedures to manage the incapacitated crew member, including requesting the presence of the Cabin Services Director on the flight deck.
- The decision to continue the flight was based on medical advice and the presence of adverse weather at alternative diversion airports.
- The aircraft was operated under a declared single-crew status for the remainder of the journey.