American CEO offers 'thoughts, prayers' after pilot died in flight

American Airlines CEO Doug Parker expressed sorrow and said "all of us at American extend our condolences" to the family of the pilot who died Monday while working on one of the carrier's flights.

Parker made his comments in a letter sent to American Airlines employees.

The letter identified the deceased pilot as 57-year-old Capt. Michael Johnston, who began flying for America West in 1990 as a first officer on the Dash-8 turboprop. America West has since merged with US Airways, which is nearing the end of its own merger with American.

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

American Airlines IDs pilot who died on flight

"All of us at American extend our condolences to Mike's wife, Betty Jean, and to his entire family," Parker says in the letter. "They have lost a husband and father, and many of you have lost a personal friend. Taking care of Mike's family is our focus now, and I know you'll join me in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers."

Parker also lauded the crew on the flight with Johnston when the pilot became ill.

"I want to take a moment to thank Mike's crewmembers on Flight #550," Parker says. "They took extraordinary care of Mike, each other and our customers. We couldn't be more proud of the teamwork this crew showed during an extremely difficult time. Our airport teams in Syracuse and Boston were also instrumental in assisting our customers, and their handling is also greatly appreciated."

Scroll down for the full text of Parker's letter to employees:

"October 5, 2015

Dear Fellow Team Members,

Today we received the extremely sad news that Phoenix-based Captain Michael Johnston passed away while at work. Capt. Johnston was piloting Flight #550 from Phoenix to Boston early Monday morning when he fell ill. Capt. Johnston was 57 years old.

A graduate of Brigham Young University, Capt. Johnston began his career with America West Airlines in January 1990 as a first officer on the Dash-8. He later flew the 737 and the 757, before being upgraded to captain on the A320.

I want to take a moment to thank Mike's crewmembers on Flight #550. They took extraordinary care of Mike, each other and our customers. We couldn't be more proud of the teamwork this crew showed during an extremely difficult time. Our airport teams in Syracuse and Boston were also instrumental in assisting our customers, and their handling is also greatly appreciated.

All of us at American extend our condolences to Mike's wife, Betty Jean, and to his entire family. They have lost a husband and father, and many of you have lost a personal friend. Taking care of Mike's family is our focus now, and I know you'll join me in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

Doug"