What happened
On February 22, 2002, an Airbus A320, registration OH-LXC, operated by Finnair, experienced a case of pilot incapacitation during a scheduled flight from Zurich to Helsinki. The flight, AY 864X, carried 135 passengers and 7 crew members.
During a technical stop in Zurich, the first officer began experiencing chills and abdominal discomfort, which he attributed to a potential flu. He decided to take Buracaps, a medication, to alleviate these symptoms without consulting the airline's medical examiner. Upon departure for the return leg to Helsinki, the first officer's condition deteriorated significantly. Within ten minutes of takeoff, he required frequent trips to the lavatory due to vomiting and gastrointestinal distress.
To manage the situation, the captain allowed the first officer to recline his seat and secure his harness to prevent accidental interference with flight controls. The captain continued the flight toward Helsinki, informing Malmö Air Traffic Control of the crew member's incapacitation. Upon arrival in Helsinki, an ambulance was waiting at the gate. Medical personnel evaluated the first officer, who was subsequently transported to the hospital for further examination.
The investigation
The investigation examined the medical condition of the first officer, the flight operations, and the crew's decision-making process. Investigators reviewed radio communications, medical records, and the aircraft's flight logs. The investigation also looked into the food served on the flight to rule out food poisoning, as the first officer had consumed a meal during the outbound leg. Laboratory tests on the crew member's stool and the remaining food samples showed no evidence of common foodborne pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli.
Findings
- The first officer's symptoms were likely caused by an infectious gastrointestinal illness, though the specific pathogen could not be identified.
- The decision to continue the flight was questionable, as the first officer's functional capacity was clearly diminished.
- The first officer's decision to self-medicate without consulting an aviation medical examiner was a significant factor; had he consulted an expert, his flight clearance likely would have been revoked for that leg.
- The flight should have been terminated or diverted at the point when the need for self-medication became apparent.
- The captain experienced an increased workload, which led to a brief delay in contacting Malmö Air Traffic Control.
- The crew acted professionally in accordance with company procedures regarding the incapacitated crew member.
Safety action
- Finnair should enhance ground training for flight crews, emphasizing the requirement to consult the company's aviation medical examiner before starting or continuing a flight duty if self-medication is being considered.
- Finnair should ensure the proper preservation and availability of flight documentation for investigation purposes.