Lufthansa has issued a statement regarding the recent controversy surrounding the Abuja runway, where passengers were offloaded from a flight due to safety concerns.
According to Thorsten Glaeser, Lufthansa Group Station Manager, the airline was aware of the valid NOTAM for runways 04 and 22 and had sensitised its pilots accordingly.
However, on July 23, the flight’s captain assessed that heavy rain and tailwind would affect the aircraft’s takeoff performance on runway 04. To ensure safe takeoff, the captain had to adjust the maximum takeoff weight, resulting in the offloading of baggage and some passengers.
He said the airline took immediate action to address the situation, providing rebooking, transportation, accommodation, and meals to the affected passengers. A total of 46 passengers were impacted, with 42 taken to a hotel and 34 booked onto alternative flights.
Lufthansa emphasised that all passengers were treated professionally and provided with their passenger rights. The airline thanked the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for their support, particularly in facilitating the successful repairs to the runway.
In a letter to the Regional Manager FAAN Nnamdi Azukiwec (NAIA) Abuja, Glaeser expressed appreciation for FAAN’s assistance, stating, “we thank you for your strong support, especially for having facilitated the successful repairs”.
The incident highlights the importance of prioritising safety in aviation operations and the need for effective communication between airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies.