A British Airways flight from London to Nigeria was forced to make an emergency landing after a retired military chief died mid-flight. 

The plane, which had departed London Heathrow Airport on Sunday night, was due to land at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at around 5am on Monday.

But only two-and-a-half hours into the flight, the pilot was forced to divert the aircraft to Barcelona's El Prat airport after a Nigerian passenger, said to be in his 80s, fell seriously ill. 

According to Nigerian media, the man - who was a retired air vice marshal - had been in the UK for cancer treatment and was returning to his home country when he died onboard the BA plane.

The emergency landing sparked chaos among passengers, reportedly leading to a pregnant woman suffering a medical episode. 

No further information was provided about the woman and her condition remains unclear. 

The airline apologised to passengers for the disruption and a new flight was scheduled later in the day, having landed in the Nigerian capital at around 5.45pm.

BA has been approached for comment. 

The terrifying mid-flight incident comes after a passenger on board an easyJet flight to holiday island Lanzarote died last month. 

The tragedy unfolded as flight EJU6775, which had departed Nantes Loire Atlantique airport in France, began its descent on the Spanish island.

The airline told French outlet Le Parisien that its crew members did everything they could to save the passenger.

The captain triggered a distress signal before 'performing a routine landing in accordance with standard procedures'.

'Our crews are trained to respond to medical procedures and did everything possible during the flight', the airline said.

'Our thoughts are with the passenger's family and friends and we extend our full support and assistance to them during this difficult time.

'The well-being and safety of our passengers and crew is always easyJet's top priority,' easyJet added.

French media reported that a significant delay was caused on the return flight due to the incident.

A spokesperson for easyJet told DailyMail: 'easyJet can confirm that flight EJU4775 from Nantes to Lanzarote on 16 September requested an expedited landing due to a passenger on board requiring urgent medical assistance.

'Our cabin crew provided first aid, and the flight was met by emergency services.

'Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the customer, and we are offering support and assistance at this difficult time.

'The well-being of our passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority.'