A plane from Miami carrying 271 passengers made an emergency landing after the pilot collapsed and died.
Captain Ivan Andaur reportedly felt unwell three hours after takeoff and was given emergency treatment by the crew.
The co-pilot of the LATAM Airlines flight made an emergency landing at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama, where medical experts declared Captain Andaur dead.
“We are deeply grateful for his 25-year career and his valuable contribution, which was always distinguished by his dedication, professionalism, and dedication,” LATAM Airlines said in a statement.
The airlines also confirmed that all safety protocols were followed when Captain Adaur was being given medical attention.
While no official cause of death has been given, a New York Post report said the pilot appeared to suffer a cardiac arrest.
“Unfortunately, we did not have the necessary or sufficient supplies to perform a good resuscitation,” a nurse said, as per the outlet.