256 US Bound Passengers Escape Death as Aircraft Encounters ‘Technical Issues,’ Makes Air Return to Lagos

 

A United Airlines flight outbound from Lagos to Washington Dulles, on Thursday declared an emergency and made an air return to Lagos after the aircraft encountered technical difficulties.

The airplane, a Boeing 787-8 with registration N27903 belonging to United States Carrier, United Airlines had 245 passengers and 11 crew members including three pilots.

A video of the ordeal of passengers on the aircraft showing how the troubled aircraft scattered the overhead luggage of passengers have been circulating online in various social media platforms.

Confirming the incident, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Micheal Achimugu, told journalists that all passengers and crew of the aircraft were successfully evacuated and have been checked into a hotel in line with relevant laws.

“Yes, it is true, and no problems, the passengers have been lodged in a hotel as stipulated by the NCAA Act,” he told journalists when contacted.

The airline also confirmed the incident attributing it to a “technical issue.”

Accordint to a statement issued on the incident by the airline, “Flight UA613 from Lagos to Washington D.C. returned to Lagos to address a technical issue.

“After landing safely, the aircraft was met by first responders to address reports of minor injuries to several passengers and crew.”

On its part, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) through a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah

“the rescue team comprising the Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Medical, and Aviation Security was already on alert and on standby just four minutes after the pilot reported distress at 01:20.

“The team of Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Medical, and Aviation Security were already at the gate when the airplane parked for deboarding at Delta 31 without incident, and the door was opened at 03:37.

“Onboard the aircraft were 245 passengers and 11 crew members. While all individuals disembarked safely, four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries, while 27 passengers and five crew members suffered minor injuries. The FAAN rescue team responded promptly, ensuring the injured received immediate medical attention.

“Aviation Medical ambulances transported the injured passengers—some to the MMA Clinic and others to the Headquarters Clinic. Those with minor injuries received first aid and were discharged immediately, while those with serious injuries were stabilized and transferred to the Duchess Hospital in Ikeja.”