Passengers and crew members were injured when a United Airlines flight heading for Washington in the United States of America had to make an air return to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on Friday.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria rescue team safely deboarded the 256 persons onboard the US-bound United Airlines plane.
Confirming the air return, the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection ofFAAN, Obiageli Orah, said all passengers and crew disembarked safely.
She, however, said that four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries, while 27 passengers and five crew members had minor injuries.
According to Orah: “The United Airlines Boeing 787-800 departed Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja at 23:59pm on Thursday, but made air return and landed safely at 3:22am on Friday.
“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 3:37am.
“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 that those with minor injuries received first aid and were discharged, while those with serious injuries were stabilised and transferred to the Duchess Hospital in Ikeja.
She said that some passengers were taken to a hotel for accommodation, adding that the aircraft did not sustain any major damage.
“The authority will continue to provide updates,” she said.
