Thirty-eight individuals suffered injuries, with six requiring hospitalization, following a United Airlines flight from Nigeria to Washington, D.C., which encountered difficulties in midair, according to Nigerian officials.
The details surrounding the emergency remain somewhat unclear. However, video footage verified by NBC News depicts the interior of the Boeing 787-8 in disarray, with meal trays and food scattered across the floor, along with portions of the aircraft’s headliner having separated from the ceiling.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria reported that the flight departed from Lagos at 11:59 p.m. local time on Thursday (5:59 p.m. ET) and returned to Murtala Muhammed International Airport at 3:22 a.m. Friday (9:22 p.m. ET Thursday) after an emergency occurred in the hours after takeoff.
In a statement issued on Saturday, United Airlines acknowledged that flight 613, which included 245 passengers, eight crew members, and three pilots, returned safely to Lagos due to “a technical issue and an unexpected aircraft movement.”
According to United, the six hospitalized included four passengers and two flight attendants who sustained minor injuries. However, Nigeria’s airports authority described the six hospitalized individuals as having “serious” injuries, stating they were stabilized at local medical facilities before being transferred to Duchess Hospital in Ikeja.
In addition to those hospitalized, an additional 27 passengers and five crew members experienced minor injuries and received first aid before being promptly discharged.
The Nigerian airports authority highlighted that a medical team, led by high-level management staff, was prepared for the situation as they communicated directly with the pilot prior to the aircraft’s arrival. Firefighters were also present on the ground, ready to assist if necessary.
Despite the incident, the aircraft itself did not sustain major damage, with the flight lasting 3 hours and 36 minutes, as tracked by FlightAware.
A representative from the Federal Aviation Administration indicated that information regarding the incident will primarily be provided by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and United Airlines. United stated that it is collaborating with both Nigerian and U.S. authorities to uncover the specifics of what transpired.
The situation underscores the importance of preparedness in the aviation industry and how both airline and airport staff effectively responded to ensure passenger safety. There is hope that a thorough investigation will lead to improved safety measures, enhancing traveler confidence in air travel.