A British Airways flight from London to Abuja was thrown into confusion early Monday after a retired Nigerian Air Force officer from Anambra State reportedly died mid-flight, prompting an emergency landing in Barcelona, Spain.
The flight, which left London Heathrow around 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, was expected to touch down at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by 5:00 a.m. Monday. However, roughly two and a half hours into the journey—around 1:30 a.m.—the pilot declared a medical emergency when the elderly passenger, believed to be in his early 80s, suddenly fell gravely ill.
The aircraft was immediately diverted to El Prat Airport in Barcelona, where emergency medical services were on standby. Unfortunately, despite efforts by crew members and available medical personnel onboard, the retired Air Vice Marshal was pronounced dead before the plane landed.
According to reports from Daily Trust, the deceased had been battling a health condition and was being flown home to Nigeria for continued treatment when his condition worsened. He was said to be among the few remaining retired Air Vice Marshals from Anambra State.
Witnesses described the atmosphere onboard as tense and emotional, as passengers watched in shock while the crew tried to resuscitate the victim. In the midst of the commotion, a pregnant passenger reportedly suffered a medical episode, adding to the panic. Her current condition remains unclear.
British Airways issued an apology to passengers following the diversion, assuring them of support and updates via email and the airline’s online chat service.
In a statement, the airline said:
“We are deeply sorry for the disruption caused by this incident and appreciate our passengers’ patience and understanding. Our team is providing assistance to all affected travelers.”
A replacement aircraft was later arranged to continue the journey to Abuja. Initially scheduled to depart Barcelona at 2:00 p.m. local time, the flight was rescheduled to leave at 2:50 p.m., with arrival in Abuja expected around 5:45 p.m. Nigerian time.
The tragic mid-air death has cast a somber mood over the passengers and crew, marking a distressing incident on what was supposed to be a routine international flight.
