Passenger heroically lands plane after pilot blackout in US sky
A dramatic incident occurred in the American sky. Following the sudden incapacitation of the pilot, a female passenger took control and successfully landed at the airport in Bakersfield, California.
The incident involving the twin-engine, turbo-propeller plane Super King Air 350ER happened at the end of last week.
Passenger executed an emergency landing
The pilot lost consciousness, rendering him unable to perform his duties. The female passenger took control and executed an emergency landing.
She received support from the aviation and maritime division of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP). In a recording shared online, you can hear the staff member remaining calm and providing detailed instructions to the woman. Thanks to this cooperation, she managed to land safely.
This exemplifies the proficiency of our aviation teams, the swift coordination with colleagues from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the collaboration of all involved to ensure a safe landing, explained Brandon Tucker, director of air and marine branches (AMBA) in San Diego, quoted by UPI agency.
A multi-purpose aircraft also participated in the operation, advising the passenger on the correct flight path to Bakersfield airport. The crew used radio communication and visual contact to escort the turbo-propeller plane. The assistance from air traffic control was also invaluable.
Immediately after landing, the pilot was taken to the hospital, and the courageous passenger emerged unscathed.
Turbo-propeller plane
According to the UPI agency, the Super King Air 350ER reaches a maximum speed of approximately 250 mph. Its maximum range is about 1,370 miles, and its maximum operational ceiling is approximately 5,450 feet.
This aircraft type is equipped with maritime search radar, weather radar, and an electro-optical infrared sensor.
