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Tragic Mid-Flight Incident: Turkish Airlines Pilot Passes Away, Emergency Landing Required
In a somber event that unfolded mid-air, a Turkish Airlines pilot tragically lost his life during a flight from Seattle to Istanbul. Captain İlçehin Pehlivan, aged 59, collapsed shortly after takeoff, prompting the co-pilot and second pilot to take control of the aircraft. An airline spokesperson confirmed that attempts to administer first aid were unsuccessful, leading the crew to execute an emergency landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
The incident occurred on flight TK204, which departed Seattle shortly after 7 PM on Tuesday. Reports indicate that the captain experienced difficulties while flying over Canadian airspace, necessitating the diversion to New York. Despite the crew's prompt response and efforts to revive him, Pehlivan was pronounced dead before the plane could land.
Captain Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had recently passed a routine health examination in March, which showed no signs of medical issues that could affect his performance. The Turkish Air Traffic Controllers' Association (TATCA) expressed its condolences, honoring Pehlivan's long-standing contributions to aviation.
As arrangements were made for the passengers to continue their journey to Turkey from New York, the cause of the captain's sudden illness remains undisclosed. This incident echoes previous occurrences in aviation history, including a similar tragedy involving an American Airlines pilot in 2015.
The aviation community mourns the loss of Captain Pehlivan, reflecting on his dedication and service in the skies.