KLM Flight Declares Emergency After Pilot Collapses Shortly After Takeoff from Dublin

A KLM flight from Dublin to Amsterdam was forced to declare an emergency shortly after takeoff when the 35-year-old pilot collapsed in his seat, according to a new report by the Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU).

The incident involved 41 passengers and crew members on October 19, 2022, just three minutes after the plane left Dublin Airport.

The AAIU report classified the event as a “serious incident” involving an Embraer E175-200 STD aircraft with 37 passengers and four crew members. Shortly after takeoff at 8:22 a.m., the first officer informed the flight commander that he was feeling unwell.

He then collapsed and quickly became incapacitated, prompting the commander to take immediate action.

The commander’s attempts to revive the first officer, including speaking loudly and shaking him by the shoulder, were unsuccessful. The incident occurred when the aircraft was at an altitude of 10,000 feet, and the autopilot was engaged. Faced with a critical situation, the commander took over all flying duties.

The commander issued a Mayday alert to air traffic controllers, requesting clearance to return to Dublin Airport.

He also informed airport authorities that medical assistance would be needed upon landing. The commander called for help from the cabin crew using the emergency call button and knocking on the cockpit door.

Although the first officer regained consciousness and appeared stable, the commander concluded that he could not participate actively in flying the aircraft. The cabin crew secured the first officer in his seat, moved him away from the cockpit controls, and placed an oxygen mask on him to ensure his safety during the return flight.

Passengers were informed via the aircraft’s public address system that the plane would return to Dublin. They were assured they would receive further information from the commander once the plane safely landed. Despite the unexpected events, the crew managed to keep the passengers calm.

As the aircraft approached Dublin for landing, it encountered a flock of birds at approximately 100 feet, resulting in a bird strike on the left side of the nose section. While the bird strike did not cause additional problems for the flight, the AAIU report noted that it could significantly increase the workload for the remaining pilot.

The plane landed generally at 8:40 a.m., although the commander reported that weather conditions had deteriorated during the approach. The safe landing concluded an emergency that had developed rapidly and unexpectedly within minutes of take-off.

A medical assessment of the first officer after landing indicated that his collapse was likely due to low blood pressure, which was attributed to dehydration and a lack of food, combined with the effects of the rising cabin altitude shortly after departure. His condition was stabilised on the ground.

KLM later informed Irish investigators that their pilot training, including initial and recurrent flight simulator sessions, covers procedures for dealing with pilot incapacitation. This training helped the commander manage the situation effectively and ensured the safety of everyone on board.

The AAIU report highlighted that the incident occurred during the early stages of the flight, a phase characterised by high workload and critical decision-making for flight crews. The sudden nature of the first officer’s incapacitation underscored the importance of being prepared for emergencies that can unfold with little warning.

The investigation emphasised the quick and coordinated response of the commander and cabin crew, which played a crucial role in safely managing the emergency. The report serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous training and preparedness for all possible scenarios in aviation.