A tragic incident occurred aboard a LATAM Airlines flight from Miami to Chile on Sunday night, as the pilot suffered an apparent cardiac arrest and passed away. The pilot, Iván Andaur, 56, was at the helm of the Santiago-bound flight when the medical emergency occurred.
The two co-pilots quickly made the decision to make an emergency landing at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City after the pilot collapsed in an onboard bathroom. Onboard, a nurse and two doctors rushed to save his life but were hindered by the lack of necessary medical supplies.
“Unfortunately, we did not have the necessary or sufficient supplies to perform a good resuscitation,” expressed a nurse identified only as Isadora on social media. This incident has raised concerns about the protocols and resources available for health and medical emergencies on LATAM flights.
During the flight, about 40 minutes after takeoff, one of the co-pilots asked if there were any doctors onboard. This request foreshadowed the unfolding tragedy. The situation worsened as the flight made its emergency landing and passengers were asked to evacuate the plane.
Passengers were provided accommodation in Panama City while the necessary arrangements were made. The flight resumed two days later, after the airline ensured that all protocols had been followed and the affected pilot received appropriate medical attention. Sadly, despite their efforts, the pilot did not survive.
LATAM Group expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended their most sincere condolences to the family of their employee. This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and resources in handling health emergencies during flights.
