Title: Unexpected Jolt Leaves Six Passengers Injured on DC-Bound United Flight, Requiring an Emergency Landing in Nigeria
Unruly footage captured by passengers reveals disorder on board, with trays, meals, and other items scattered across the aircraft's floor. The turbulent incident compelled Flight 613 to make an emergency landing back in Lagos. The airline reported that six individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Following medical attention at a nearby hospital, all the affected passengers were discharged. United Airlines spokesperson Leslie Scott confirmed this information to CNN.
The cause of the in-flight commotion remains unclear, as United Airlines ruled out severe turbulence as the culprit, while collaborating with aviation authorities in the US and Nigeria to investigate the matter further.
FlightRadar24 data reveals that Flight 613 abruptly descended from cruising altitude around 93 minutes post takeoff. Preceding this incident, the same aircraft was previously diverted on Tuesday. FlightRadar data indicates a sudden descent of 1,000 feet approximately 89 minutes into that particular flight. Nevertheless, the connection between these two diversions remains to be determined.
Friday's flight accommodated 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots according to United Airlines. In the aftermath, the airline is working diligently to facilitate alternative flight arrangements for all affected passengers.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the incident, citing no fatalities. He added that passengers received hospitality at nearby hotels, as per the state-run Radio Nigeria's report.
The incident involved a Boeing 787, prompting renewed scrutiny by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following a similar mid-air plunge of a Latam Airlines flight in March 2024. Investigators discovered that the pilot's seat on that flight had inadvertently moved forward and impacted the plane's control column, causing the aircraft's nose to steeply descend.
In light of the Latam Airlines incident, Boeing issued an advisory to carriers operating Boeing 787 aircraft, recommending immediate inspection of cockpit seat switches to guarantee their safety and functionality. The ongoing scrutiny of Boeing 787 cockpit seats, especially regarding seat track splice fittings, is emblematic of continuing concerns regarding the safety and durability of Boeing 787 seat hardware.
The incident on Flight 613 disrupting aviation travel, prompting an investigation by aviation authorities. Despite the turbulent incident, many passengers were able to reschedule their travel plans due to the airline's efforts.
