A United Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency return landing in Lagos after experiencing a “technical issue,” leaving four passengers and two crew members seriously injured. The incident occurred aboard Flight UA613, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was initially en route to Washington Dulles International Airport.
The flight, carrying 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots, had already served meals when the aircraft lost cabin pressure and began a sharp descent. One passenger recounted the frightening experience, saying, “We had already been served our meals when the plane lost pressure and dropped. We noticed a sharp descent. I hit my head on the ceiling because of the impact. The sharp descent happened three times, causing some people to sustain injuries.”
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) issued a statement confirming that the aircraft returned to Lagos after the incident. “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.”
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner safely touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where emergency services were ready to assist. Those seriously injured were quickly taken to a nearby hospital, while the remaining passengers were provided with care and support.
Authorities are investigating the technical issue that caused the sharp descent and pressure loss, though no further details have been provided at this stage. United Airlines has also confirmed it is working closely with local officials to determine the cause of the incident and provide support to those affected.
The incident has raised concerns about safety measures and technical issues on long-haul flights, but officials have reassured the public that the swift response from emergency teams prevented further harm.
More from: Lagos
