According to flight records, LATAM 505 took off from Miami approximately at 9:40 p.m. on Sunday and touched down about three hours later at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City.
During the flight, the 56-year-old captain left the cockpit to use the restroom and did not return, as reported by The Aviation Herald.
Upon landing in Panama City, the cabin crew noticed that the captain had collapsed near the sink and attempted to revive him, but the captain could not be revived.
According to Dr. William Makis, this marks the third instance of pilot incapacitation this week, with this one being the first fatality.
With three pilots aboard the aircraft, the remaining two took action by diverting the plane and executing a safe landing in Panama City, Panama. This diversion occurred 28 minutes after the pilot’s collapse, precisely at 12:36 AM EDT on August 15, 2023.
In a statement provided to FOX Business, LATAM Airlines confirmed that the Boeing 787 altered its route from Santiago “due to a medical emergency of one of the three members of the crew in command.” The airline emphasized that all necessary protocols were diligently followed during the flight to prioritize the well-being of the ailing pilot. Regrettably, despite receiving further medical assistance upon landing, the pilot’s life could not be saved.
“LATAM Group is deeply saddened by this event and takes this opportunity to express our most sincere condolences to the family of our employee,” the airline also said. “We are thankful for his 25-years of service to LATAM, distinguished by his dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm.”
