American Airlines flight makes emergency landing after pilot dies onboard

An American Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency landing after the pilot died mid-air, according to airline officials.

The flight from Phoenix to Boston was diverted to Syracuse, New York, this morning after the captain became ill and later died, according to an airline spokeswoman.

Andrea Huguely said Flight 550 left Phoenix at 11.55p.m. local time and was diverted mid-flight, landing shortly after 7am EDT (11am GMT).

She said that after the flight's captain was incapacitated, the first officer safely landed the plane with 147 passengers and five crew members onboard.

A statement from the airline said: "We are incredibly saddened by this event, and we are focused on caring for our pilot's family and colleagues."

Details of the medical emergency and the identity of the deceased pilot weren't immediately released, nor were details released of exactly when he died.

Huguely said a replacement crew was sent to Syracuse and the plane later completed its trip to Boston.

Before the flight landed at Syracuse, the first officer called the airport tower and said in a calm voice, "American 550. Medical emergency. Captain is incapacitated", as he requested a runway to land on.

In a recording of his exchange with the tower, the officer expresses concern whether ambulance medics can get on the plane quickly, before he is told to go into a gate where the medics would meet the plane.