Boeing 767 controls American Airlines officials say a flight attendant effectively landed one of their planes with 225 passengers on board following the first officer fell ill during a flight to Chicago.

The attendant, who was entirely qualified to fly, stepped in on Monday after the co-pilot suffered vicious stomach flu-like symptoms, according to a report in The Chicago Tribune.

Stewardess Patti DeLuna helped to land the aircraft after informing staff that she had trained as a profitable pilot. Before learning this, the captain had already begun seeking help from any passengers who might be capable to fly the aircraft.

Ms DeLuna told the newspaper: I was the most excellent available (back-up pilot) they had on the plane. According to reports, however, she had not piloted a plane for over two decades and her license had expired: My first question to the captain was, Where are the brakes? She added.

After the Boeing 767 landed securely in Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the first officer was brought to hospital and is reported to be recovering fine. Airline officials praised Ms DeLuna and the rest of the squad on Flight 1612, which had originated in San Francisco, for their actions.