A technical malfunction on Friday compelled a Qatar Airways aircraft carrying 248 passengers and 12 crew members to make an emergency landing at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

According to a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the aircraft developed a fault while in flight within Nigerian airspace, necessitating the emergency landing.

LASEMA explained that it received a distress call via its 767/112 toll-free emergency lines. Upon arrival at the scene, the LASEMA Response Team, LRT, confirmed that the aircraft was in distress.

“The pilot executed a safe landing on the runway at Murtala Mohammed International Airport with LASEMA Response Team and other emergency responders standing by on extreme high alert on the runway.

“Collaborative efforts of the multi-agency responders were coordinated. After proper check by the pilot and the engineering crew, the aircraft was moved to the apron for detailed inspection and prompt repairs.”

“All passengers of the distressed airplane were evacuated safely; no injuries reported, no loss of lives,” the statement said.

Despite the technical issue and the emergency landing, the agency noted that there was no major damage to the aircraft.

“The aircraft has been secured on the apron. Recovery activities have been completed,” the statement added.