Sipho Matshie
On 29 January 2025, FlySafair’s flight FA711 enroute from George to Johannesburg had a bizarre circumstance midway through its journey. On a routine domestic flight, its pilot experienced a sudden medical emergency, leaving the aircraft’s command primarily in the hands of the co-pilot. After being in charge of the aircraft, the co-pilot made a request to anyone aboard with aviation experience to assist in the cockpit. A brave passenger stepped up and read the checklist to the co-pilot and the flight successfully landed without any harm to passengers or crew members and thus demonstrating swift response to an unprecedented situation and the efficiency of existing aviation safety measures.
Despite these unusual turn of events, passengers maintained a composed and cooperative attitude, adhering to instructions without panic. Once the aircraft was safely towed to its designated parking bay, they proceeded to disembark in an orderly and routine manner, ensuring a smooth and efficient deplaning process. Similarly, the pilot immediately received medical attention from the medical personnel on standby.
Safety standard procedures in aviation
The aviation industry operates under stringent safety regulations designed to ensure the well-being of both crew and passengers. Despite rigorous health screenings and operational procedures, unexpected medical emergencies can arise. The recent FlySafair incident, in which a pilot became ill mid-flight, highlights the necessity of emergency preparedness, pilot health evaluations, and the role of both professional and civilian intervention.
The co-pilot’s request for assistance in the cockpit was merely a standard procedure and in no way intended to endanger lives. It is imperative to note that the passenger turned pilot did not operate the flight, the co-pilot remained in charge until the aircraft safely landed in Johannesburg after having requested priority landing clearance.
The duty of co-pilots
Co-pilots, also referred to as First officers, are trained to assume full control in the event of a captain’s incapacitation. It is mandatory for certain types of aircraft, operated commercially to be operated by a pilot, together with a co-pilot at all times. This is often determined by the passenger capacity and the certification of each aircraft type. In the FlySafair flight incident, the co-pilot, experienced and qualified to independently operate an aircraft, swiftly took over command, ensuring that the flight remained stable and on course. Effective communication between the cockpit and cabin crew played a crucial role in maintaining calm and executing the necessary protocols to manage the emergency efficiently. The aircraft, a Boeing 737 is certified to be operated by two pilots. The incapacitation of the captain meant that the first officer would need a second pair of eyes to monitor instruments, assist with landing checks and such other non-technical tasks, as guided by the remaining pilot. It is worth noting that the incident occurred during the critical phase of the flight, on descent. What often assists in a situation of this nature is that once a Mayday is declared, air traffic control will endeavour to make the single pilot operation much smoother by clearing the airspace. Thus the remaining pilot has less radio work to do, but can now concentrate on flying the aircraft safely.
Lessons learned and future considerations
The involvement of a passenger with aviation experience in assisting the co-pilot emphasises the value of additional onboard expertise. While rare, instances where passengers with flight experience step in during emergencies have been documented globally. The above-mentioned incident serves as a case study for improving in-flight medical preparedness. Airlines may consider enhancing first aid training for crew members, introducing real-time health monitoring for pilots, and reinforcing protocols for handling pilot incapacitation.
While the industry continues to prioritise pilot health and crisis response, this incident highlights areas for improvement in medical preparedness and passenger intervention policies. Ensuring the safety of all on board remains paramount, requiring continuous assessment and enhancement of existing procedures in relation to safety and emergency response.
About the author:
Mr Sipho Matshie is an LLB graduate at the University of South Africa and Master of Laws candidate, majoring in Aviation Law, at the same university. He currently serves as a Candidate Legal Practitioner at the University of South Africa’s Law Clinic.