United Airlines Flight UA613, traveling from Lagos to Washington, was forced to make an emergency return to Lagos after encountering technical difficulties mid-air.
The Boeing 787-8, carrying 245 passengers, eight cabin crew members, and three pilots, experienced issues while flying over Ivory Coast, resulting in widespread panic among those on board.
Passengers recounted a terrifying ordeal marked by severe turbulence and sudden drops in altitude.
The loss of cabin pressure led to minor injuries for several individuals, with some passengers reporting being thrown against the ceiling during the sharp descents.
Initial plans to divert the flight to Ghana were abandoned, and the pilot opted to return to Lagos, where the aircraft landed safely and was met by emergency responders.
United Airlines issued a statement confirming the incident, citing a technical problem as the reason for the unscheduled return.
The airline acknowledged reports of minor injuries and assured the public of its commitment to safety.
The incident has sparked discussions about aviation safety and the importance of rigorous technical inspections, particularly given the impact such emergencies can have on passenger confidence and global travel operations through major hubs like Lagos.
