Turkish Airlines pilot dies mid-flight after takeoff from Seattle

An Airbus A350 operated by Turkish Airlines made an emergency landing at New York JFK Airport after Captain Ilcehin Pehlivan suddenly fell ill and tragically died during the flight.

According to reports, the Turkish Airlines flight, which took off from Seattle, U.S., this morning, experienced a critical incident shortly after takeoff. Captain Pehlivan lost consciousness, and despite all attempts to revive him, he could not be saved.

Turkish Airlines Press Adviser Yahya Ustun announced on social media: “During the flight of our Airbus A350 with tail number TC-LGR, on route TK204 from Seattle to Istanbul, Captain Ilcehin Pehlivan lost consciousness. After initial medical assistance onboard proved unsuccessful, the cockpit crew, consisting of one captain and one co-pilot, decided to execute an emergency landing. Unfortunately, our captain passed away before landing.”

Captain Pehlivan, who had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007, was 59 years old. He underwent a routine medical examination at an Aviation Medical Center authorized by the General Directorate of Civil Aviation on March 8, 2024, which did not reveal any underlying health issues that would prevent him from performing his duties.

The flight was diverted to New York, and arrangements were being made for passengers to return to Türkiye from there.

In his statement, Ustun expressed condolences on behalf of the Turkish Airlines family, stating, “We wish our captain eternal peace and patience for his grieving family, as well as all his colleagues and loved ones.”