What happened
On 21 July 2022, an Airbus A320-200, registration PK-GLW, operated by PT Citilink Indonesia, departed Juanda International Airport in Surabaya for a scheduled flight to Makassar. Shortly after takeoff, the second in command noticed that the pilot in command had become unresponsive and was in a stiff position.
Upon realizing the pilot in command was incapacitated, the second in command engaged the autopilot and declared a PAN PAN urgency message to air traffic control. A medical doctor traveling as a passenger came to the cockpit to provide emergency care. During the flight, the doctor attempted resuscitation on the cockpit floor after the pilot's pulse and breathing ceased. Due to the unstable nature of the approach while medical efforts were underway, the second in command executed a go-around before eventually performing an ILS approach to Runway 10.
The investigation
The KNKT investigation examined the flight history, crew medical records, and the sequence of events following the pilot's collapse. The investigation confirmed that both pilots had undergone routine blood pressure and oxygen saturation tests prior to departure with normal results. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, though the auxiliary power unit was unserviceable, necessitating a request for ground electrical support upon arrival.
Findings
- The pilot in command's most recent medical examination had noted high cholesterol and an overweight condition, though he had been granted a valid medical certificate.
- The pilot in command showed no signs of illness or physical distress prior to the flight.
- The second in command successfully managed the aircraft single-handedly, performing all necessary checklists and communicating with air traffic controllers.
- The pilot in command was pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital following the aircraft's safe landing.