‘Six sustained serious injuries’ — FAAN gives update on United Airlines emergency landing

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says 31 passengers and seven crew members of the United Airlines plane were injured.

On Thursday, a United Airlines flight UA613, made an emergency landing at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

The Boeing 787-8 flight was en route to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), in the United States, from Lagos.

The aircraft had on board 245 passengers, eight attendants and three pilots.

In a statement on Friday, Obiageli Orah, FAAN director, public affairs and consumer protection, said all passengers and crew disembarked safely.

Orah, however, said four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries while 27 passengers and five crew members had minor injuries.

“The United Airlines Boeing 787-800 departed Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, at 23.59 p.m. on Thursday, but made air return and landed safely at 3.22 a.m. on Friday,” Orah said.

“On board were 245 adults and 11 crew members.

“The team of Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Medical and Aviation Security were already at the gate when the aeroplane parked for deboarding at D31 without incident, and the door was opened at 3.37 a.m.

“While all passengers and crew disembarked safely, four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries, and additional 27 passengers and five crew members had minor injuries.

“The rescue team responded swiftly and effectively, having been on alert and standby.

“Aviation medical ambulances transported the injured passengers, some to the MMA Clinic and others to the Headquarters Clinic.”

Orah also said passengers with minor injuries received first aid and were discharged, while those with serious injuries were stabilised and transferred to the Duchess Hospital in Ikeja.

The director added that some passengers were taken to a hotel for accommodation, adding that the aircraft did not sustain any major damage.

Orah said the authority will continue to provide updates.