By Newsshelve Correspondent.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has issued a statement to clarify misleading reports surrounding an incident involving United Airlines flight UAL 613, which departed Lagos for Washington Dulles on January 24th, 2025.
According to NAMA, the incident, which involved an air return, did not occur within Nigerian airspace. The flight, carrying 256 passengers and 11 crew members, fulfilled all departure protocols in accordance with international aviation standards.
Approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes after departure, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude while over Côte d’Ivoire’s airspace. The pilot, exercising his prerogative, decided to return to Nigeria, considering it a safer option for landing.
Upon contact with the flight, NAMA’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) activated medical emergency services as requested by the pilot and guided the flight to a safe landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Emergency protocols were immediately activated, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew onboard.
NAMA emphasized that the airline did not violate any airspace regulations and commended the pilot’s professionalism and judgment in prioritizing the safety of everyone onboard.
The agency also clarified that another aircraft belonging to the airline, which flew to Lagos from Accra, was strictly on a rescue mission to transport passengers who had received treatment by Nigerian medical personnel.
NAMA reassured air travelers of the safety of the Nigerian airspace and urged analysts to obtain authentic information from appropriate quarters before commenting on critical national issues.
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