A British Airways flight en route from London to Abuja was compelled to make an urgent landing in Barcelona following the in-flight death of a passenger, who was identified as a retired Air Vice Marshal from the Nigerian Air Force.
The officer, originally from Anambra State and reportedly suffering from a terminal illness, was being transported back to Nigeria to receive further medical care when he unexpectedly passed away during the journey.
Sources reveal that the aircraft diverted to Barcelona’s El Prat Airport as the crew attempted to revive the ailing military veteran.
As of the latest reports, specific details regarding the deceased passenger and the exact circumstances of his death remain limited.
British Airways’ Regional Commercial Manager for Nigeria and Ghana, Tutu Otuyalo, confirmed the passenger’s terminal condition, acknowledging the unfortunate event.
According to LEADERSHIP, the flight departed from London Heathrow at 11 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, with an anticipated arrival in Abuja at 5 a.m. the following Monday. However, the emergency forced the plane to divert to Barcelona.
It was understood that the retired Air Vice Marshal was being repatriated to Abuja for continued medical treatment prior to his sudden passing.
In response, British Airways issued an apology to the distressed passengers and arranged for a replacement aircraft to depart Barcelona at 2 p.m. local time on Monday, with an expected arrival in Abuja by 7 p.m.
Passengers received communications from the airline expressing regret for the disruption and assuring them that Customer Care representatives were available to address any inquiries or concerns.
“We advise passengers to check their emails for further updates and to utilize our Live Chat support for assistance. British Airways sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience and understanding,” the airline stated in a message to those affected.
By midday Monday, British Airways provided an update indicating a slight delay of approximately 45 minutes. The replacement flight was confirmed to be en route, with a new departure time from Barcelona set for 2:50 p.m. local time and an estimated arrival in Abuja at 5:45 p.m.
British Airways reiterated its apologies for the interruption and confirmed the deployment of the substitute aircraft to complete the journey.
