Philippine Airlines (PAL) said one of its pilots suffered a mild stroke just minutes before reaching Bacolod City last Wednesday but was able to hand over control of the aircraft to his co-pilot who landed it safely.
PAL vice president Rolando Estabillo said the incident happened on a flight to Bacolod that was carrying 79 passengers.
He said pilot Alex Carvajal complained of pain in his nape and asked co-pilot Donato Cabigo to take over.
According to Estabillo, Carvajal was lucid and continued to monitor the aircraft. No emergency was declared and the pilot was immediately taken to a hospital.
Estabillo said their pilots undergo regular medical checkups. – AP