Emergency Services Respond After easyJet Co-Pilot Faints Mid-Flight

On July 27, 2024, an easyJet Airbus A320 aircraft experienced an in-flight emergency when its first officer fainted as the flight approached Lisbon Airport (LIS). Despite the incident, the aircraft landed safely, and emergency services met the crew upon arrival.

The easyJet Airbus A320-200, registered as G-EZOA, was operating flight EZY2459 from London Luton Airport (LTN) to Lisbon Airport (LIS). As the aircraft neared its destination, the first officer became incapacitated. An easyJet spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating, "easyJet can confirm that the flight EZY2459 from Luton to Lisbon was met by the paramedics upon landing due to a pilot member feeling unwell."

The captain successfully landed the aircraft and taxied to a remote stand where emergency services were waiting. The first officer was subsequently taken to a hospital. The easyJet spokesperson reassured passengers, saying, "The Captain landed the flight routinely in line with procedures and passengers disembarked normally. At no point was the safety of the flight compromised. The safety and welfare of passengers and crew is easyJet's highest priority."

After the incident, the Airbus A320 remained at Lisbon Airport for approximately four and a half hours before departing for the return flight to London Luton, arriving about three hours late.

Pilot Incapacitation: A Rare but Serious Occurrence

While pilot incapacitation is rare, it does happen several times a year, leading to flight diversions or routine landings depending on the situation. This year, few such incidents have been reported, though there was a notable case involving Boeing 717 pilots affected by a chlorine odor.

In 2023, there were more frequent reports of pilot incapacitation, including a tragic event where a LATAM Airlines pilot passed away mid-flight on a Miami-Santiago route, resulting in an emergency diversion to Panama City.

The Debate Over Single-Pilot Operations

The incident has reignited discussions about the viability and safety of single-pilot operations, a concept being explored by major aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing. Pilot associations argue that having only one pilot could pose significant safety risks, especially in situations of pilot incapacitation.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority has also raised concerns about single-pilot operations, highlighting potential impacts on mental health, crew training, job satisfaction, and medical requirements. While a single pilot can land an aircraft, the absence of a co-pilot may compromise overall safety during emergencies.