Following a medical emergency on Sunday, a passenger made a private aircraft landing at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. 

The pilot, Joe Izatt, was the chair of Duke University's Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) and the Michael J. Fitzpatrick Professor of Engineering. According to his faculty profile on the university's website, his research centered on using technology to send light into tissues, especially inside the eyes, for the purpose of diagnosing eye diseases. 

It's not clear what kind of medical emergency Izatt suffered during the flight, but he passed away, and the university lowered flags on campus in his honor.


A Duke professor trained under Izatt, Hafeez Dhalla, said, "What stands out for Joe is the community that he built, which goes beyond all of the technical accolades." Just a highly close-knit group of accomplished scientists with the utmost regard for him."

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On Monday, Duke released a statement: "Since joining Duke in 2001, Izatt has served the university through dedicated service to his students and colleagues and as a pioneering researcher. During his tenure as chair of Duke BME, he championed the successes of all within the community and worked with faculty, staff, and students to ensure the department supported its goals.

"In a message to the Duke Engineering community, Pratt School Dean Jerome Lynch celebrated Izatt's career and leadership. 'He was an exceptionally thoughtful leader who weighed every decision with a care that originated with his deep love for the BME community. The integrity and humility he brought as a school leader will be missed."


The small aircraft, a Cirrus SR-20, landed on a secondary runway close to the general aviation terminal at Raleigh-Durham International Airport on Sunday. The passenger who made the landing was the only other person on board.

All runways stayed open, and there was no effect on airport operations, according to RDU.

The Raleigh-based Izatt and Coherent Aviation is the registered owner of the aircraft.

WRAL News is informed by sources that Izatt leaves behind a wife and three children.

According to Duke, "This is a significant loss for the academic community Izatt championed, and the impact of his legacy will be felt for years to come."