A passenger on a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to Lagos died after experiencing a medical emergency shortly before the aircraft landed in Nigeria.

Kenya Airways confirmed that the incident occurred on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, aboard a flight travelling from Nairobi to Lagos.

According to the airline, the passenger became unresponsive approximately 20 minutes before the aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

“Kenya Airways PLC (‘KQ’) confirms that on Tuesday, 06 October 2026, our flight from Nairobi to Lagos experienced a medical emergency on board at around 21:20 hrs local Nigerian time,” the airline said in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 7.

“One of our passengers was found to be unresponsive approximately 20 minutes before landing in Lagos,” Kenya Airways added.

Kenya Airways crew administered first aid

The airline said its crew immediately responded to the medical emergency and provided assistance to the passenger.

“Our crew administered first aid as per their training and followed all emergency procedures,” Kenya Airways said.

The flight subsequently continued to Lagos, where emergency medical personnel were waiting for the aircraft.

“Upon landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at 21:41 hrs, the aircraft was met by medical personnel,” the airline stated.

The medical team examined the passenger after the aircraft landed and confirmed that the passenger had died.

“Upon further examination, the medical personnel confirmed that the passenger had passed away,” Kenya Airways said.

Kenya Airways sends condolences to family

The airline expressed its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased passenger following the incident.

“We convey our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased,” Kenya Airways said.

The national carrier also apologised for any inconvenience the incident may have caused passengers travelling on the flight.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this incident may have caused,” the airline stated.

Kenya Airways said it was committed to protecting the privacy of the deceased passenger and respecting the dignity of everyone affected by the incident.

“We uphold and respect the privacy and dignity for all involved,” the airline said.

Airline supporting deceased passenger’s family

Kenya Airways said it was working with the deceased passenger’s family as authorities handled the matter.

“Kenya Airways is providing the necessary support in close coordination with the deceased's family, local authorities, and aviation regulators,” the airline stated.

The airline did not disclose the identity of the passenger or provide details about the medical condition that led to the emergency.

The incident was communicated by Kenya Airways Corporate Communications in a statement dated October 7, 2026.

The development comes as airlines continue to emphasise the importance of trained cabin crew and established emergency procedures when passengers experience medical complications during flights.

Kenya Airways has not indicated whether the medical emergency affected the flight’s operations beyond the response required after the passenger became unresponsive.

Further details regarding the passenger’s identity and cause of death are expected to be handled in coordination with the family and relevant authorities.