Air Canada Flight 7664, operated by regional carrier PAL Airlines, departed from Newark Liberty International Airport and was en route to Halifax when the incident occurred in the cockpit.

According to the airline, the captain experienced a medical issue while the aircraft was in flight and was removed from the flight deck in accordance with established safety procedures. The first officer assumed full control of the aircraft and declared an emergency before diverting to Boston Logan International Airport.

The aircraft landed safely, coming to a stop just off the runway, where emergency responders were waiting to assist. No injuries among passengers or crew have been reported.

In a statement, Air Canada said: “During the flight, the captain experienced a medical issue and was removed from the flight deck as per safety protocols. Pilots are trained to fly aircraft and land safely without the assistance of a second pilot.”

The incident highlights the aviation industry’s built-in safety procedures, which require all commercial airline pilots to be fully qualified to operate and land an aircraft independently if necessary. Airlines regularly train flight crews to handle medical emergencies and other unexpected situations that may occur in the cockpit.

The condition of the captain has not been disclosed. Air Canada said it is assisting affected passengers following the diversion to Boston.