Qatar Airways has disclosed why it’s flight operating from Lagos to Doha, made an unplanned return to Lagos on Friday night.
In a statement by the airline, it the airline confirmed that it’s flight QR 1406, operating from Lagos to Doha, “made an unplanned return to Lagos due to a technical issue that occurred in flight.”
Recalled that no fewer than 248 passengers were rescued on Friday night after a Qatar Airways aircraft developed a technical fault mid-air and was forced to make an emergency landing at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
“The cockpit crew followed established procedures and landed the aircraft safely.
“All passengers have disembarked safely and are being taken care of on the ground and will be booked on the next suitable flights to reach their destination as soon as possible,” the airline stated.
Read also: 248 passengers, 12 crew rescued after Qatar Airways aircraft makes emergency landing at MMIA
The airline assured that the safety of its passengers and crew is always its priority and apologized for inconvenience caused.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency had earlier confirmed that the aircraft, which was fully loaded with 248 passengers and 12 crew members, encountered the problem while airborne within Nigerian airspace, triggering distress alerts and an immediate emergency response.
According to a preliminary report by LASEMA, the agency said it activated the state’s emergency response plan immediately upon receiving the distress call through its 767/112 toll-free emergency lines.
According to a release by LASEMA, the pilot, with the support of the emergency responders, executed a safe landing on the runway, and all occupants were evacuated without injuries or loss of life.
Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, confirmed that the agency’s response teams, along with other emergency responders, were on high alert and stood by during the landing.
“The collaborative efforts of the multi-agency responders were coordinated, and after proper checks, the aircraft was moved to the apron for detailed inspection and repairs,” he said.
