A FlyBe co-pilot fell unconscious upon descent into Dublin airport. In his condition, he inadvertently hit off a rudder pedal which resulted in the aircraft to roll prior to landing.
The FlyBe Bombardier DHC 8-402 carrying 33 passengers and four crew, was travelling from Exeter to Dublin when the incident occurred.
The pilot asked his co-pilot what he thought caused the aircraft to roll, but found him to be unconscious at that point.
The pilot took full control of the aircraft while making an emergency call to Dublin Aircraft Control.
Cabin crew assisted the co-pilot and ensured he was not impeding any more controls, whilst an able passenger was briefed and assumed the crew seat at the rear of the plane.
Air accident Investigators concluded that the co-pilot suffered loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood pressure.
He had also been stressed with his young child being sick and his sleep pattern disrupted. No safety recommendations were given.