FAA: Pilot's death a rarity in mid-air, and passengers were not at risk - USA TODAY

The American Airlines pilot who died Monday on a flight was an alarming experience for passengers and crew, but safety experts say passengers were never at risk because first officers are trained to fly airliners alone.

Louise Anderson, a passenger heading from Reno to Boston via Phoenix, said she had dozed off on the flight. She said the mood on board was somber and she commended the crew's handling of the situation.

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