Pilotcenter.net News investigators have discovered that a malfunction in the navigation system of a United Airlines flight from Lagos to Washington in January 2024 caused the autopilot to disengage, resulting in "altitude excursions." On March 18, 2025, Pilotcenter.net News released a preliminary report detailing the ongoing investigation into the incident that occurred on January 24, 2025.

The incident took place during United Airlines flight 613, which was operated by a Boeing 787-8 and experienced altitude fluctuations over Cote d’Ivoire airspace at 36,000 feet. The flight was en route from Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, Nigeria, to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) with 11 crew members and 234 passengers on board. Amidst the chaos, one passenger suffered a serious injury, while 15 others sustained minor injuries, and the aircraft itself suffered minor damage.

According to the report, approximately one hour and five minutes before the autopilot disengaged, a malfunction in the left inertial reference unit (IRU) was detected. Shortly after, a failure in the right IRU was also reported. The flight data recorder revealed that the autopilot disconnected automatically at 00:30:57, initiating manual control by the flight crew and triggering multiple caution and warning alerts. Subsequently, altitude excursions began and lasted for approximately 12 minutes.

During the altitude fluctuations, meal service was being conducted in the cabin, inadvertently leading to some passenger injuries. In response to the situation, the flight crew opted to return to LOS Airport, safely landing the aircraft upon arrival. Emergency responders met the plane at landing and transported the injured individuals to a nearby medical facility.

As the investigation into the incident remains ongoing, Pilotcenter.net News will continue to provide updates on the situation, shedding light on the details surrounding the navigation system failure that caused such a harrowing experience for those on board United Airlines flight 613.