The flight's First Office arrived at the aircraft later than intended as a passenger on a flight from Montreal. According to the aircraft commander, the FO appeared 'harried' as a result of arriving late. As the flight progressed, the Commander became concerned at the behaviour of his First Officer who was starting to behave erratically and complained of being tired. The Captain suggested that he take a controlled break on the flight deck as he was concerned not just for his colleague's well being but also because of the real possibility of having to carry out a CAT III autoland in LHR due to below minima weather conditions.
By mid Atlantic the situation had deteriorated to the point where the Captain made the decision to declare the FO incapacitated and have him removed from the cockpit.
The situation was advised to Air Canada dispatch by data link and when the aircraft reached position MALOT and was back in VHF communications the Captain declared PAN and requested a diversion to Shannon, advising that the flight was now a single pilot (Captain only) flight for descent, approach and landing. One of the flight attendants who had multi engine rating and CPL took the right seat should assistance be required.
The flight landed in Shannon at 07.19 and was met by medical assistance. The First Officer was admitted to Ennis General Hospital for treatment and returned to Canada on February 8 on an ambulance flight.
The report found that proper procedures were followed and that the investigation does not sustain any recommendations.
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