American Airlines pilot dies during flight from Phoenix to Boston

An American Airlines pilot died mid-flight on Monday while flying from Phoenix to Boston, according to airline officials.

“Unfortunately, our pilot passed away. We are incredibly saddened by this event, and we are focused on caring for our pilot’s family and colleagues,” an American Airlines spokesperson told the Guardian.

Flight 550 was diverted to Syracuse Hancock international airport and the plane was landed safely shortly after 7am EDT by the co-pilot, after the pilot became ill.

There were 147 passengers and a crew of five aboard the Airbus A320.

Andrea Huguely, a spokeswoman for the airline, said a replacement crew was sent to Syracuse and the plane later completed its trip to Boston.

Before the flight landed at Syracuse, the first officer called the airport tower and said in a calm voice, “American 550. Medical emergency. Captain is incapacitated.” He requested a runway to land.

In a recording of his exchange with the tower, the officer expresses concern whether ambulance medics can get on the plane quickly. He is assured that they can, and is told to go into a gate where the medics would meet the plane.

The pilot’s medical emergency and identity has not been disclosed.