German flag carrier Lufthansa (LH) Boeing 747-8, registered as D-ABYF, operating flight LH-463 from Miami (MIA) to Frankfurt (FRA), encountered a critical mid-flight medical situation approximately 140 nautical miles west of Gander, Newfoundland on Jan 19, 2025.
The flight, cruising at FL350, underwent an unexpected leadership transition when the captain became incapacitated in the crew rest area.
The senior first officer immediately assumed command, activating emergency protocols. A second first officer was summoned to the cockpit to provide additional support.
The senior first officer immediately assumed command, activating emergency protocols. A second first officer was summoned to the cockpit to provide additional support.
They executed a fuel dump during the diversion to ensure safe landing weight and declared an emergency to air traffic control, signaling the urgency of their situation.
Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes after the initial incident, the aircraft successfully landed in Montreal without further complications.
The Canadian Transportation Safety Board confirmed the medical nature of the captain’s incapacitation, highlighting the professionalism and preparedness of the Lufthansa crew in managing an unexpected in-flight medical emergency.
@ HappyToursAfrica