EasyJet, a UK-based, low-cost airline, operated a flight from Hurghada, Egypt to Manchester on February 8th.
Passengers told Manchester Evening News that the pilot collapsed around two hours after the flight.
Travelers were initially unaware that the incident had to do with the pilot.
“At first, I thought it might have been a passenger because nothing was said. Besides asking if someone was medically trained, a few passengers were up and the cabin was in the process. He helped the crew,” he said.
“The phone below was from the cabin crew to advise that this was a captain/pilot who was feeling sick while seeking medical treatment. “At this point, the passengers said it was a pilot. I was beginning to get quite worried and anxious, including myself, knowing that I wasn't a passenger.”
“The ride was so rough and I started to get scared.”
Easyjet confirmed the incident in a statement from people and noted that the co-pilot had diverted the flight and was able to safely land in Athens.
“The first mate made regular landings following standard operating procedures and the aircraft was filled by ambulances upon arrival in Athens,” the spokesman confirmed.
EasyJet apologised for the inconvenience caused by the incident as the flight was delayed overnight.
“We did everything to minimize the impact of the disruption and arrange the available hotel rooms and meals,” the statement said. “We would like to apologise to our passengers for any inconvenience this may cause. We appreciate your patience and understanding.”
Last year, EasyJet made international headlines when panicked passengers were forced to evacuate an emergency slide on the plane after a steamy pen explosion.
“I could see smoke coming towards us from the front of the plane, so I asked my dad, 'Is this the protocol?' “Then the girl ran down the aisle with her bag and ran out with smoke, then there was a cracking sound, the sound of flames, causing panic.”
Fox Business contacted EasyJet for comments.
