- British Airways flight from London to Abuja diverted to Barcelona after the death of a retired Nigerian Air Vice Marshal.
- The late Air Vice Marshal, in his early 80s from Anambra, was reportedly ill and returning to Nigeria for treatment.
- Panic spread among passengers, with a pregnant woman also affected during the emergency diversion.
- British Airways apologized, provided updates, and rescheduled the diverted Abuja flight for the same day.
A British Airways flight heading to Abuja from London was forced to make an emergency landing in Barcelona after tragedy struck on board. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, leaving passengers shaken and sparking concern for their safety.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
READ ALSO: Peter Obi Demands Strict Punishment for Politicians with Forged Certificates
The flight had departed Heathrow Airport at about 11:00 p.m on Sunday, October 5, and was expected to land at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by 5:00 a.m Monday. However, around 1:30 a.m, the pilot declared a medical emergency after an elderly Nigerian passenger, a retired Air Vice Marshal from Anambra State, passed away mid-flight.
Sources revealed that the deceased, believed to be one of the few surviving retired air vice marshals from the state, was in his early 80s. He had reportedly been unwell and was returning to Nigeria for further medical care when his health failed.
The situation caused distress among passengers, with confusion onboard leading to another medical scare involving a pregnant woman. Her condition was not immediately confirmed at the time of reporting.
British Airways issued a statement expressing regret over the incident and assured passengers that all necessary support was being provided.
READ ALSO: Shehu Sani Reacts as UNN Disowns Minister Uche Nnaji’s Degree Certificate
The airline confirmed that a replacement aircraft was arranged, with the diverted Abuja flight initially set to depart Barcelona at 2:00 p.m local time. The rescheduled takeoff was later moved to 2:50 p.m, with arrival in Abuja expected at 5:45 p.m Nigerian time.
The incident highlights the challenges airlines face when dealing with emergencies mid-air and the importance of swift decisions to protect passengers.
