The American Airlines captain who died at the controls of his plane had a history of heart problems, it has been reported.
Captain Michael Johnston, 57, passed away despite the desperate efforts of a flight attendant with medical training to revive him on flight 550 from Phoenix to Boston after he was taken ill at the controls.
Johnston’s wife Betty Jean told KUTV in Utah that her husband had a double bypass in 2006 and was required to get a physical every six months to make sure he was fit to fly.
"He has had problems with his heart," Johnston's wife told the station. "He seemed perfectly fine."
American Airlines CEO Doug Parker said in a letter to employees:"All of us at American extend our condolences to Mike’s wife, Betty Jean, and to his entire family.
"They have lost a husband and father, and many of you have lost a personal friend.
Taking care of Mike’s family is our focus now, and I know you’ll join me in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.''
In a recording, the first officer is heard radioing ground control explaining that the captain has become “incapacitated”.
An air stewardess who used to work as a nurse fought to save his life.
The plane, which was carrying 146 passengers and five crew, was diverted to Syracuse, New York where the co-pilot landed the plane safely.
An audio recording from Air Traffic Control reveals the moment the first officer radios in the emergency.
The pilot can be heard saying: “Medical emergency, captain is incapacitated, request handling for runway 108.”
The Airbus A320 is believed to have continued its journey to Boston Logan International Airport after the emergency was dealt with.
Louise Anderson, from Boston, tweeted: “The pilot died on our redeye back to Boston (leading to 4h in Syracuse). life is short. do what you love before it’s too late.”