New York-Bound Flight Diverted After Crew Member Dies On Board

A Hawaiian Airlines flight headed from Honolulu to New York was diverted to San Francisco on Friday after a flight attendant became ill and died on board, according to an airline statement.

In a statement, Hawaiian Airlines said the flight attendant had been with the airline for more than 31 years. He was identified as Emile Griffith.

"We are forever grateful for Emile's colleagues and good Samaritans on board who stayed by his side and provided extensive medical help," the airline said. "Emile both loved and treasured his job at Hawaiian and always shared that with our guests. Our hearts are with Emile's family, friends and all those fortunate to have known him."

The flight landed in San Francisco shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Thursday. The plane was carrying 253 passengers and 12 crew members.

San Francisco airport spokesman Doug Yakel told The Associated Press that the crew member suffered a suspected heart attack. The San Mateo County coroner declared the crew member dead on arrival, Yakel said.

The passengers were re-accomodated on the first available flights and provided compensation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Photo by Ted S Warren/Associated Press