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Turkish Airlines Captain Dies Midflight

The flight from Seattle to Istanbul was forced to divert to New York.

A Turkish Airlines A350-900XWB (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera)

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.

Ryan Ewing
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  • Ryan Ewing

    Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

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