Turkish Airlines Flight Diverts to New York Due to Pilot's Death

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ICARO Media Group
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09/10/2024 18h11

**Turkish Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in New York After Pilot's Death**

A Turkish Airlines flight traveling from Seattle to Istanbul was forced to make an emergency landing in New York on Wednesday after the sudden death of its pilot. The pilot, Lehin Pehlivan, 59, fell unconscious during the flight, prompting the crew to divert the plane to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The incident occurred after Turkish Airlines Flight TK204 departed from Seattle Tuesday night. Efforts by the crew to revive Captain Pehlivan were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead before the Airbus A350 touched down in New York just before 6 a.m., according to FlightAware data.

Yahya Üstün, a spokesperson for Turkish Airlines, confirmed the emergency situation and detailed that arrangements were being made to ensure passengers reached their intended destination from New York. Üstün also mentioned that Captain Pehlivan had been with Turkish Airlines since 2007 and had passed a routine health check in March, indicating no problems that would have hindered his ability to fly.

"As Turkish Airlines, we deeply feel the loss of our captain and extend our sincerest condolences to his bereaved family, colleagues, and all his loved ones," Yahya Üstün expressed.

The sudden loss of Captain Pehlivan is a deep shock to the Turkish Airlines community, and efforts are underway to support his family and colleagues during this difficult time. Passengers and crew have been provided with assistance to continue their journey following the unexpected diversion to New York.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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