The Captain of a B737NG elected to land single pilot when the First Officer was forced to leave the flight deck on initial approach due to the effects of possible food poisoning.
Synopsis
The Captain of a B737NG elected to land single pilot when the First Officer was forced to leave the flight deck on initial approach due to the effects of possible food poisoning.
Narrative
Between the initial and final approach fixes; the First Officer stated he had to go to the lavatory -- adding; 'I'm not kidding.' I said; 'OK; I should be able to get a holding clearance until you get back.' The First Officer proceeded to the lavatory and I let the Purser into the cockpit. I asked Tower if there was any traffic behind us and was told there was an aircraft about 10 miles in trail. At this point I thought holding was not the best idea considering the traffic; and foremost; I thought the safest course of action was to go ahead with the approach and land the jet; single pilot if necessary. Factors that went into my decision-making:1) We were already set up for the approach; on course; on speed; Flaps 10. 2) Weather was clear and dry. 3) The traffic behind us. 4) Delay might cause more problems -- back taxi to clear runway (no parallel taxiway). 5) Likely communications problem with Tower speaking English as second language.6) Likelihood of holding away from the airport in mountainous terrain. 7) No First Officer to help me with the above planned setup. 8) The go-around was already in the 'box;' if needed. 9) The Flight Attendant could open the door and let the First Officer back in -- possibly before landing. I landed the jet uneventfully. The First Officer returned in time to assist with the taxi in and after landing checklist.
Second reporter narrative
This condition came on very suddenly; and if I did not go at that time there was going to be a 'mess' in my uniform and on my seat. My thought was that it must have been something I ate; as we were served breakfast approximately 20 minutes prior. I had just finished in the lavatory as I felt the plane touchdown.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.