The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has issued a clarification regarding reports surrounding United Airlines flight UAL 613, which experienced an air return on January 24, 2025. The flight, carrying 256 passengers and 11 crew members, departed Lagos en route to Washington Dulles.

NAMA is addressing misleading reports and commentary from certain “aviation experts” regarding the incident. For clarity, the incident involving a loss of altitude did not occur within Nigerian airspace. UAL 613 departed Lagos following all international aviation standards and protocols.

Approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes into the flight, while over Côte d’Ivoire airspace, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The pilot, exercising their prerogative and based on their assessment of the situation, chose to return to Lagos – the flight’s origin – rather than divert to Bamako or Abidjan.

Upon receiving contact from the flight, NAMA’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) immediately activated medical emergency services, as requested by the pilot and in accordance with standard operating procedures. Lagos Area Control Centre established contact with the flight 180 nautical miles from Lagos, activating a medical emergency standby and guiding the aircraft to a safe landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Upon arrival, emergency protocols were immediately activated by NAMA’s ATC and ground medical teams, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew. A separate United Airlines aircraft flew from Accra to Lagos to transport the passengers onward, following treatment by Nigerian medical personnel. NAMA clarifies that this aircraft was solely for passenger transfer and not a “rescue mission” as has been incorrectly reported.

NAMA confirms that the airline did not violate any airspace regulations and commends the pilot’s professionalism and sound judgment in prioritizing the safety of all onboard. NAMA is committed to maintaining the highest standards of airspace safety and adhering to international best practices.

NAMA hopes this clarification will reassure air travellers of the safety of Nigerian airspace and urges analysts to seek accurate information from official sources before commenting on such matters.