Pilot has seizure during flight with scores of passengers on board

A co-pilot suffered a seizure in the cockpit, causing the plane to make a violent movement. A member of the cabin crew fell to the floor as the Flybe co-pilot became incapacitated and repeatedly pressed on the plane’s pedals. He had to be restrained by a member of the cabin crew as the aircraft’s commander worked to counteract his movements, according to the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Forty-three passengers and crew were on board the flight from Inverness to Jersey, on 5 August last year. The commander was performing routine cockpit checks when he noticed his co-pilot was shaking, his arms were tensed and his was leaning back in his seat and looking towards the ceiling. The autopilot system became disconnected and the Bombardier Dash 8 turboprop airliner slewed and knocking over the cabin crew attendant. Then, the commander called the senior cabin crew member into the cockpit, where she was able to restraint the seizing co-pilot. The commander then diverted the aircraft to Manchester Airport. The landing was carried out safely and paramedics boarded the aircraft to take the co-pilot to hospital, where he was released after three hours.<br/>