A Nigerian passenger, in the early hours of yesterday, died onboard British Airways flight, which departed London Heathrow Airport for the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja.

The passenger, who was simply identified as a retired Air Vice Marshal, our correspondent learnt, was ill before departing London for Abuja, but died on board less than two hours after departure.

The incident, our correspondent learnt, forced the pilot to make an emergency landing at the El Prat Airport, Barcelona, Spain, at about 1:10 a.m.

The six-hour flight departed from Heathrow London Airport on Sunday at 11:30pm.

Our correspondent learnt that the octogenarian was being brought back to Nigeria for further treatment by his family because of the illness.

However, when our correspondent contacted the Regional Commercial Manager for Nigeria and Ghana, British Airways, Mrs Tutu Otuyalo, she did not respond to her call, while a message sent to her mobile line was also not responded to as at the time of filing this report.

But a report monitored by newsmen alleged that Otuyalo confirmed the incident.

She reportedly claimed that the deceased passenger had a terminal illness.

She also apologised to other disturbed passengers, even as the airline made efforts to ensure that a new aircraft was deployed to the routes to evacuate the passengers from Barcelona airport.

The airline said: “Passengers are advised to expect an email with more information and can reach out to the airline’s Live Chat feature for support.

“British Airways acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks passengers for their patience and understanding. We’d like to advise that the replacement aircraft for your flight to Abuja is now on its way.

“The estimated time of departure from Barcelona is 14:50 local time, with arrival into Abuja expected at approximately 17:45 local time. We understand the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon. British Airways.”