Panic occured in aboard British Airways (BA) flight from London to Abuja after a retired Nigerian Air Vice Marshal from Anambra State reportedly fell ill and died mid-air, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency diversion to Barcelona, Spain, in the early hours of Monday.
The aircraft, which departed London’s Heathrow Airport at 11pm on Sunday, October 5, was scheduled to arrive at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by 5am Monday.
However, at about 1:30am, the pilot declared a medical emergency when the elderly passenger — believed to be in his early 80s —became critically ill.
The flight was subsequently diverted to El Prat Airport in Barcelona.
Sources told Daily Trust that the deceased had been ill and was being flown back to Nigeria for further treatment when he passed away mid-flight.
He was one of only a few surviving retired air vice marshals from Anambra State.
The incident triggered panic and confusion among passengers, with witnesses describing moments of distress as cabin crew and medical personnel on board tried to assist the ailing passenger.
In the chaos that followed, a pregnant woman reportedly suffered a medical episode, prompting further concern.
Her condition could not be immediately confirmed at press time.
British Airways, in a message to passengers, apologised for the disruption and assured them of support.
“Passengers are advised to expect an email with more information and can reach out to the airline’s Live Chat feature for support.
British Airways acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks passengers for their patience and understanding,” the airline stated.
The airline also confirmed that a replacement aircraft would continue the journey to Abuja.
Initially scheduled to depart Barcelona at 2pm local time and arrive in Abuja at 7pm, the departure was later adjusted to 2:50pm with arrival expected around 5:45pm Nigerian time.
