Two TSA Agents Save Pilot’s Life at Virginia Airport

Image: Busy airport terminal. (photo via iStock/Getty Images E+/Terraxplorer)
Image: Busy airport terminal. (photo via iStock/Getty Images E+/Terraxplorer)
Rich Thomaselli
by Rich Thomaselli
Last updated: 9:10 AM ET, Tue April 25, 2023

Agents for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) aren’t there just to look at your airplane ticket or inspect your bag. For some of them, it’s so much more than that, we have learned.

A pair of TSA agents jumped into action and helped save the life of a pilot at Richmond International Airport in Virginia, according to WAVY.com. The pilot, who was walking in the concourse, apparently suffered a cardiac arrest incident.

TSA officer Nigel Allen and lead officer Trenard Collier began the process, with Allen performing CPR. The two of them cleared the area so that first responders could have room to work on the pilot.

“Officer Allen’s actions displayed conspicuous initiative, capability, and above and beyond service to the community he serves,” said TSA Federal Security Director Robin “Chuck” Burke. “His actions clearly contributed to saving the pilot’s life.”

“The RIC Airport Police Department and stakeholders at RIC commended Officer Allen for his quick response in being the first to administer initial first aid,” Burke continued.

The pilot is reportedly recuperating and his family expressed deep appreciation for Allen’s help.


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Rich Thomaselli

Rich Thomaselli

Associate Writer

Editor Associate Writer true 9281 14744 Rich Thomaselli has written for TravelPulse since 2014 and has been a professional journalist for nearly 40 years. His work has appeared in USA Today, the New York Times and New York Yankees publications. He is an 11-time writ

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