Halifax-bound Air Canada flight diverted to Boston after pilot suffers medical emergency

An Air Canada flight bound for Halifax made an unscheduled landing at Boston Logan International Airport on Wednesday (June 24) after the captain suffered a medical emergency during the flight.

According to the Massachusetts State Police, Air Canada Flight AC7664, which had departed from Newark, New Jersey, was diverted to Boston at around 1:40 p.m. ET following reports of a medical emergency involving the pilot.

Passengers on the flight helped restrain the pilot, who suffered what appeared to be a seizure for about 40 minutes after the aircraft suddenly veered off course midflight, according to a passenger who spoke to ABC News.

A registered nurse was also apparently on board to help direct passengers and assist the pilot during the emergency.

In an email to CBC News, Air Canada said the captain of flight AC7664 was removed from the flight deck "per safety protocols" and the first officer took control of the aircraft and safely landed the plane, a De Havilland Q400, in Boston.

Emergency responders reportedly met the aircraft after it landed in Boston to ensure everyone disembarked safely.

State police confirmed the pilot was taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

The aircraft, carrying 61 passengers, was operated by regional partner PAL Airlines.

Air Canada said it is working to arrange alternate travel for those affected so they can continue to Halifax as quickly as possible.

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