A British Airways pilot has died between flights on the island of St Lucia after collapsing in a luxury hotel.
The 47-year-old Senior First Officer was in the hotel yesterday (November 3) when he collapsed in front of holidaymakers, leaving his crew devastated.
British Airways was forced to cancel flight BA2158, due to go from the Caribbean to Gatwick this morning (November 4).
A source said: “This tragedy has left British Airways staff stunned and deeply upset.
“The Senior First Officer was very popular and his death was completely out of the blue.
“He was the life and soul; a really popular guy and just 47-years-old old. He collapsed suddenly in a public area.
“It’s so sad that this has happened and everyone has been hit for six.
“Bosses have handled the tragedy in an incredibly sensitive way and staff can speak to a trained counsellor if it helps them.”
The crew on board have since been offered counselling by bosses.
British Airways executives are liaising with St Lucia authorities and are in contact with the pilot’s family.
The airline said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of our colleague at this difficult time.”