American Airlines pilot dies mid-flight

An American Airlines pilot died during a flight from Phoenix to Boston, forcing the co-pilot to land the jetliner, The Associated Press reports. 

American Air Flight 550 was diverted to Syracuse Hancock International Airport, N.Y., by its co-pilot and reportedly landed safely. 

{mosads}The AP says the flight was carrying 147 passengers and five crew members, including the pilot who passed away. The cause of death was not immediately released.

“We are incredibly saddened by this event, and we are focused on caring for our pilot’s family and colleagues,” American Air said in a statement provided to the news service.

The report said the co-pilot radioed air traffic controllers to say, “American 550. Medical emergency. Captain is incapacitated.”

The co-pilot asked for a runway to land and inquired about whether medical personnel could reach the plane in time to save the pilot, according to the report.