American Airlines First Officer Dies During Flight

An American Airlines co-pilot died after having a medical episode just before landing in Albuquerque.

The Albuquerque Journal reports that the captain declared a medical emergency on Flight 1353 a couple of minutes before landing at Albuquerque International Wednesday evening.

A spokesman for the airline tells the newspaper the captain landed the flight from Dallas-Fort Worth without incident. The plane taxied normally to a gate and was met by paramedics.

American Airlines First Officer William “Mike” Grubbs was pronounced dead after CPR was performed. Two people familiar with the incident said CPR was performed for 35 to 40 minutes before the first officer was pronounced dead.

The airline said in a statement that it “is deeply saddened” by Grubbs’ passing. “We are taking care of First Officer Grubbs’ family and colleagues, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”

The FAA said it “will follow up with the airline” to learn more about Wednesday’s incident.
Many of the tasks during final approach in a Boeing 737 can be handled safely by a single crew member, but it would significantly increase the stress and workload for the captain.