Penguins forward Kindel falls ill on team plane, flight turns back

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Ben Kindel lost consciousness aboard the team plane on Tuesday, as the club was flying home after a road game against the Utah Mammoth. The aircraft, carrying a team from the NHL, North America's top ice hockey league, had to return to the airport ten minutes after takeoff.

Medical checks concluded that Kindel suffered vasovagal syncope, a fainting episode, according to Kyle Dubas. The forward was given an oxygen mask and regained consciousness as the plane made an emergency landing.

Hospital and return

After landing, Kindel was taken to hospital by ambulance. Yesterday he was cleared to return to Pittsburgh, and the club said he travelled with Nick Bonino, Jason Spezza, Richard Rotenberg and Dr. Vyas. He is currently at the team facility for treatment and further testing.

Kindel will undergo additional medical examinations and has been placed on the injured list. The Penguins hope the forward will be able to return to the ice next week.

The club shared the details of the incident on social media.