Date: December 4, 2024
Location: Enroute between Calgary, AB, and Vancouver, BC, Canada
Aircraft: Boeing 737-8 MAX, registration C-FXYK
Operator: WestJet
Flight Number: WS-129
Route: Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Occupants: 175 passengers and crew
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On December 4, 2024, WestJet Flight WS-129, a scheduled flight from Calgary to Vancouver, experienced a mid-flight crew incapacitation when the first officer reported feeling unwell and was unable to continue their duties. Fortunately, another WestJet pilot, who was traveling as a passenger on the flight, volunteered to replace the first officer. This swift action ensured the aircraft continued its journey without disruption. The captain and the substitute first officer successfully landed the aircraft at Vancouver International Airport without further incident.
Aircraft Details
• Type: Boeing 737-8 MAX
• Registration: C-FXYK
• Engines: 2x CFM International LEAP-1B
• Configuration: Passenger aircraft
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• During cruise, the first officer reported feeling ill and was unable to continue their duties.
2. In-Flight Response:
• Another WestJet pilot, traveling as a passenger, was identified and assumed the first officer’s duties after coordination with the captain.
• The incapacitated first officer moved to the cabin for the remainder of the flight.
3. Continuation to Destination:
• The flight crew, now comprising the captain and the substitute first officer, continued the journey without declaring an emergency or requesting priority handling.
4. Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely at Vancouver International Airport as scheduled, and passengers disembarked without incident.
Initial Findings
1. First Officer Incapacitation:
• The first officer’s sudden illness rendered them unable to perform their duties, highlighting the importance of having contingency plans for such scenarios.
2. Availability of a Replacement Pilot:
• The presence of a trained WestJet pilot among the passengers mitigated the potential risks associated with the incapacitation.
3. Operational Continuity:
• The crew managed the situation effectively, ensuring no disruption to the flight’s operation.
Safety Risks Identified
1. Crew Health Monitoring:
• The incident underscores the need for robust health monitoring protocols for flight crew to mitigate risks of in-flight incapacitation.
2. Contingency for Crew Shortages:
• While rare, such events highlight the importance of pilot redundancy and training for emergency crew role substitution.
3. Passenger Handling:
• Ensuring clear communication to passengers during such incidents is critical to maintaining calm and order onboard.
Recommendations
1. Health Assessments:
• Implement periodic health checks for crew members to identify potential medical issues that could lead to incapacitation.
2. Emergency Crew Training:
• Reinforce protocols for handling pilot incapacitation and ensure all crew are well-versed in contingency measures.
3. Passenger Protocols:
• Enhance communication guidelines for addressing passengers during such situations to ensure transparency and calm.
Safety Lessons
This incident demonstrates the critical importance of crew resource management and the necessity of contingency measures for unexpected crew incapacitation. The professionalism of the crew and the availability of a qualified replacement pilot ensured the safety of all onboard.
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
