… FAAN Rescue Team Safely Deboard 256 passengers
By Sade Williams
United Airlines flight operated with Boeing 787-800, on Thursday made an emergency landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, at about 03:22 a.m hours after it departed same airport at 23:59 pm on Wednesday.
A statement from United Airlines press office said, “Flight UA613 from Lagos to Washington D.C. returned to Lagos to address a technical issue. After landing safely, the aircraft was met by first responders to address reports of minor injuries to several passengers and crew. Persons onboard include 245 passengers, 8 flight attendants and 3 pilots”.
Meanwhile, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria ‘s team of Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS), Aviation Medical and, Aviation Security (AVSEC) were already at the gate when the plane parked for deboarding at D31 without incident, and the door was opened at 03:37.
Another statement by Obiageli Orah, FAAN’S spokesperson said while all passengers and crew disembarked safely, four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries, and an additional 27 passengers and five crew members had minor injuries.
She said 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 stabilised and transferred to the Duchess Hospital in Ikeja. Some passengers were also taken to a hotel for accommodation. The aircraft itself did not sustain any major damage. The Authority will continue to provide updates as they become available.”, she said.