A Kenya Airways passenger died on Tuesday after becoming unresponsive about 20 minutes before a Nairobi–Lagos flight landed, the airline said on Wednesday. The death adds operational and reputational pressure to a carrier still recovering from a heavy 2025 loss.
In a statement posted on X, Kenya Airways said the emergency began at about 21:20 Nigerian time on 6 October. “One of our passengers was found to be unresponsive approximately 20 minutes before landing in Lagos,” the airline said. The aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at 21:41, where medical staff confirmed the death.
“Our crew administered first aid as per their training and followed all emergency procedures,” Kenya Airways said.
It offered condolences, apologised for inconvenience, and said it is working with the family, local authorities and aviation regulators. No name, flight number or cause of death was given.
Nigeria’s regulator has offered a sharper account. Michael Achimugu, NCAA director of public affairs, told Punch he was briefed by the airline’s country manager. He said the passenger had been denied entry in Madagascar and was being returned by the carrier that had brought him there.
Achimugu said the man became restless, tried to reach the cockpit, then tried to open a rear door. Crew restrained him, with his hands tied behind his back, before he was declared dead on arrival.
Police have taken over the inquiry. Achimugu urged against concluding the cause while investigations continue, and said the family could request an autopsy.
The episode follows a weakened balance sheet.
In March Kenya Airways reported a pre-tax loss of 17.93 billion shillings ($138.3 million) for 2025, reversing a 5.53 billion shilling pre-tax profit in 2024. Revenue fell 14% to 161.47 billion shillings after capacity dropped about 18%.
Management blamed the grounding of three Boeing 787-8s, about a third of the wide-body fleet, on engine and parts shortages.
Passenger numbers fell to 4.55 million from 5.22 million. Negative equity widened to about 132 billion shillings. The airline has said it is seeking fresh liquidity while adding capacity, including on the London route.
In-flight deaths are uncommon, but a restraint followed by a death will draw regulator and insurer scrutiny.
