Ivan Andaur, a seasoned pilot, collapsed and tragically passed away while on duty aboard a Boeing 787 en route from Miami to Santiago, Chile
The incident occurred during flight LA505 operated by LATAM Airlines on Sunday night, according to The Sun.
Andaur, 56, had a distinguished 25-year career in aviation, having previously served in Chile’s Air Force before joining LATAM.
The flight, which embarked from Miami International Airport, was progressing smoothly until Andaur began to experience a sudden bout of illness.
In response, his co-pilots swiftly initiated an emergency landing at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City to seek medical assistance for their incapacitated colleague.
Medical professionals, including paramedics and onboard medical personnel, boarded the aircraft to provide immediate aid to Andaur.
Despite their dedicated efforts, Ivan Andaur could not be revived and was declared deceased.
A nurse, identified only as Isadora on social media, revealed that along with two doctors and another nurse, she tried to resuscitate Andaur during the landing process, as he displayed symptoms indicative of cardiac arrest.
Regrettably, Isadora highlighted the challenging circumstances they faced. She conveyed that the medical team lacked the essential supplies necessary for an effective resuscitation attempt.
Isadora’s statements brought attention to potential gaps in the airline’s protocol for addressing medical emergencies mid-flight.
The exact nature of the required supplies was not specified by the nurse, leaving questions about the airline’s readiness to handle critical in-flight medical situations.
An unidentified female passenger disclosed that around 40 minutes into the flight, one of the co-pilots urgently sought medical assistance, and the pilot’s condition seemed to deteriorate rapidly.
The flight crew reached out to passengers to inquire if anyone had medical supplies suitable for individuals who require insulin.
Consequently, the situation escalated, leading to a decision to land the aircraft. Passengers were then asked to evacuate as the pilot’s health worsened.
The flight remained grounded for approximately 30 minutes before being cancelled.
Affected passengers were accommodated in local hotels, and the journey resumed on Tuesday afternoon.
Ivan Andaur’s untimely demise left his family, colleagues, and the aviation community in shock.
The captain’s contributions to the aviation industry were widely acknowledged, with LATAM expressing its deepest condolences to his family.
The airline praised Andaur’s professionalism, dedication, and commitment throughout his career.
Andaur’s legacy was honoured by fellow pilots, including Sky Airline captain Paula Mandini, who paid a heartfelt tribute on social media.
