A FlySafair flight from George to Johannesburg landed safely at OR Tambo International Airport earlier this week after the captain fell ill mid-flight. The safe landing was ensured thanks to the co-pilot and a qualified pilot who happened to be a passenger.

Although some people on board were concerned when an announcement was made from the cockpit asking if there was a qualified pilot on board, FlySafair has explained that this is standard procedure.

I was on this flight FA711 from George to Joburg! True story!! A random guy with some flight experience had to step in fly and land the airplane but could not park it. Thankfully safe landing ! @FlySafair must explain this https://t.co/96tLtX7rQc

— JM (@jmssebunnya) January 30, 2025

According to a statement by the airline, the captain of flight FA711 started feeling unwell toward the end of the journey on Wednesday, as the aircraft prepared to descend. The captain told the co-pilot that he was experiencing discomfort and asked his colleague to take full control for the rest of the flight.

“In line with standard operating procedures, the first officer (co-pilot) – who is fully certified and trained to operate the aircraft independently – assumed command and conducted a seamless landing at OR Tambo International Airport.”

The co-pilot requested priority landing clearance and asked for assistance from any qualified pilots on board, as per standard safety protocols.

“We were fortunate to have a qualified pilot among the passengers who assisted the first officer by reading out the required checklists, although they did not conduct any flying themselves.”

Upon arrival in Johannesburg, emergency medical personnel were on standby to help the captain. He was safely taken off the aircraft and received medical care.

“Passengers remained calm and co-operative throughout, disembarking as usual once the aircraft was towed to the designated parking bay.”