Passengers aboard a Ryanair flight from Italy to Romania experienced a terrifying ordeal when one of the pilots lost consciousness just minutes before landing. The incident occurred on November 3, 2025, on a flight from Bergamo to Cluj-Napoca, prompting the co-pilot to issue an emergency “Mayday” call and take full control of the aircraft.

According to reports, the Boeing 737-800NG was approaching its destination when the pilot suddenly felt unwell and collapsed in the cockpit. His colleague immediately assumed command and notified air traffic control of the emergency, requesting priority landing clearance. Despite the stressful circumstances, the co-pilot managed to guide the plane safely to the runway.

As soon as the aircraft came to a complete stop, airport medical teams rushed on board to assist the unconscious pilot. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, though his condition has not been officially disclosed.

Due to the medical emergency, the runway at Cluj Airport was temporarily closed, disrupting air traffic. Several incoming flights were diverted to Sibiu Airport, located about 250 kilometers away. The return Ryanair flight to Bergamo was delayed for approximately three hours, awaiting a replacement crew flown in from Bucharest.

Aviation experts have explained that such situations, though extremely rare, are covered by strict safety procedures. Pilots are trained to handle sudden incapacitation of a colleague, and modern aircraft are designed to be flown safely by one pilot if necessary. When such an incident occurs, the crew issues either a “Pan Pan” or a “Mayday” call — the former indicating an urgent but non-life-threatening issue, and the latter signaling a serious emergency comparable to an SOS distress call.

Cabin crews are also trained in emergency first aid and have access to medical kits and defibrillators (AEDs) on board. In critical situations, flight attendants may ask passengers if any of them have medical training to assist until professional help arrives.

For passengers affected by the delay, European regulations entitle them to compensation if their flight was delayed by more than three hours or canceled without an adequate alternative connection. Depending on the flight distance, the compensation can range from €250 to €600.

Although the situation ended safely, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the professionalism required of pilots and crew who must stay calm and act decisively even in moments of crisis.