American Airlines pilot dies mid-flight, forcing plane to make an emergency landing

An American Airlines pilot collapsed at the controls and died shortly afterwards on board an overnight flight from Phoenix to Boston. Airline spokeswoman Michelle Mohr said that Flight 550 was diverted to Syracuse, New York, on Monday morning after the pilot suddenly “became ill”. The flight’s first officer requested an emergency landing and safely landed the plane, which was carrying 147 passengers, after telling the control tower in Syracuse: “American 550. Medical emergency. Captain is incapacitated." The pilot has been identified as 57-year-old Captain Michael Johnston, who lived in West Jordan, Utah.

We’ve all been together, just comforting each other, it’s kind of surreal. You just feel numb, it’s not real.

Pilot Mike Johnston’s widow, Betty Jean

His widow, Betty Jean Johnston, said she had been informed he is thought to have died from a heart attack. She said he had double heart bypass surgery in 2006 and was in good health. She told CBS affiliate KUTV: "He has had problems with his heart. He seemed perfectly fine. He’s a pilot, he leaves Sunday night he doesn’t get back until Wednesday, it just feels like he’s on his trip." Airline pilots must pass physical exams every 12 months, and every six months for captains above the age of 40. American Airlines said Mr Johnston had passed all the necessary health checks.

All of us at American extend our condolences to Mike’s wife, Betty Jean, and to his entire family.

A statement from American Airlines

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