A British Airways flight from London to Abuja was forced to make an emergency landing in Barcelona after a passenger, identified as a retired Air Vice Marshal of the Nigerian Air Force, died mid-flight.
The Anambra-born officer, who was reportedly terminally ill, was being flown back to Nigeria for further medical treatment before his sudden demise.
According to sources, the plane carrying the man made an emergency landing at the El Prat Airport, Barcelona, as they struggled to resuscitate the ailing military officer.
Details about the deceased passenger and the circumstances surrounding the death remained sketchy as of press time.
However, confirming the development, British Airways Regional Commercial Manager for Nigeria & Ghana, Tutu Otuyalo, said the deceased was terminally ill.
LEADERSHIP reports that the flight, which departed London’s Heathrow Airport at 11 pm on Sunday, October 5, was scheduled to land in Abuja at 5 am on Monday but made an unexpected detour to Barcelona after the incident.
It was, however, gathered that the terminally ill retired AVM was being transported back to Abuja for further medication before his sudden demise.
British Airways has already apologised to traumatised passengers, even as efforts are ongoing to ensure that a new aircraft departs the Barcelona airport at 2 p.m. today (Monday). It is expected to land in Abuja at 7 p.m. local time.
According to messages shared with the passengers, the airline apologised for the disruption and assured passengers that the Customer Care team would be available to assist with any questions or concerns.
“Passengers are advised to expect an email with more information and can contact the airline’s Live Chat feature for support. British Airways acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks passengers for their patience and understanding,” the airline told the affected passengers in a general message.
Further update from the airline at about noon on Monday: The flight is delayed by some 45 minutes, saying, “We’d like to advise that the replacement aircraft for your flight to Abuja is now on its way.
The estimated departure time from Barcelona is 14:50 local time, with arrival into Abuja expected at approximately 17:45 local time. We understand the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon. British Airways”
British Airways apologised for the disruption and provided a replacement aircraft. The new flight is scheduled to depart from Barcelona at 2:50 p.m. local time and arrive in Abuja at 5:45 p.m. local time.
