A significant disaster was narrowly avoided on Friday when a US-bound flight from Lagos to Washington Dulles was forced to return to Murtala Muhammed Airport after developing a technical fault mid-air.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) confirmed that 38 passengers and crew members sustained varying degrees of injuries during the incident.
The aircraft, carrying 256 people, including 245 passengers and 11 crew members, declared distress approximately four hours into the flight, prompting a return to Lagos.
Speaking on the incident, FAAN spokesperson Obiageli Orah disclosed that the rescue team was immediately activated, ensuring a swift response.
“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,” Orah said.
She further detailed the injuries: “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.”
FAAN further explained that passengers without injuries were accommodated at nearby hotels, adding that the aircraft did not sustain any major damage.
The agency reiterated its commitment to safety and efficiency in aviation operations, assuring the public of its readiness to respond to emergencies effectively.
