Pilot's illness turns Air NZ jet back to LA

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An Air New Zealand jet turned back to Los Angeles three hours into a flight to Auckland after a pilot became ill.

A doctor who was a passenger on the Air New Zealand flight treated the pilot.

Air New Zealand spokesperson Marie Hosking said the flight NZ1 from Los Angeles was being operated by three pilots so the flight deck remained fully staff at all times.

She could not say what illness the pilot had suffered.

"Obviously it is serious enough for them to have to return to Los Angeles."

The Boeing 777-300 aircraft had 316 passengers on board.

Due to crew rest requirements, Air New Zealand provided the passengers with hotel accommodation in Los Angeles overnight.

The flight was due to depart again for Auckland this afternoon (New Zealand time).

- © Fairfax NZ News