Turkish Airlines flight 204 from Seattle to Istanbul diverted to New York-JFK on Wednesday after the captain passed away while in flight.
An airline spokesperson confirmed the pilot’s death on Twitter/X, adding that he initially fainted during the flight.
“When the first medical intervention to our captain on the plane was ineffective, the cockpit crew consisting of 1 captain and 1 co-pilot decided to make an emergency landing, but our captain lost his life before landing,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
At 59 years old, Capt. Ilcehin Pehlivan was a 17-year veteran of the carrier. His last airman medical examination was in March, the airline noted, which found no issues.
“As the Turkish Airlines family, we wish God’s mercy upon our captain and patience to his grieving family, all his colleagues and loved ones,” the spokesperson added.
