British Airways has grounded one of its aircraft at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos due to a technical fault, leaving passengers stranded, News About Nigeria reports.
The flight, BA 74, was scheduled to depart for London at 10:50 PM on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, but was ultimately cancelled early Thursday morning.
In a statement, British Airways acknowledged the inconvenience and assured affected passengers that the airline has been in contact with them to offer apologies and alternative arrangements.
Tutu Otuyalo, the airline’s Regional Commercial Manager for Nigeria & Ghana, stated that safety remains the airline’s top priority.
“We’ve been in contact with our customers to apologise for the delay to their flight, which was caused by a technical issue with the aircraft. The majority of customers have been re-accommodated on other flights, and our team is working hard to book the remaining customers on a flight as soon as possible. We will cover accommodation and meal costs for customers. We would never operate a flight unless it is safe to do so,” Otuyalo said.
Following the technical hitch, passengers were asked to cancel their immigration forms and retrieve their checked-in luggage from baggage claims.
The delay and subsequent cancellation left many travellers frustrated as they awaited further instructions from the airline.
When reached for comment, Michael Achimugu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed awareness of the situation but deferred further details pending verification with his officers.
“Yes, somebody brought the matter to my attention about an hour ago, but I have been so busy. If such happens, the airline must have taken care of the passengers. If that has been done, there will be no issues, but let me check with my officers, and I will get back to you shortly,” Achimugu said.
