Arik Air Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Benin After Engine Failure
An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 on a Lagos–Port Harcourt flight made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday after the crew heard a loud bang from one of the aircraft’s engines.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) described the incident as involving “significant damage” to the affected engine.
Arik Air’s spokesperson, Adebanjo Ola, said the aircraft, registered 5N-MJF and operating flight W3 740 from Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, to Port Harcourt International Airport, was descending into Port Harcourt when the left engine produced a loud bang.
The crew immediately took precautionary measures and diverted the flight to Benin.
“All 80 passengers and crew on board were safely evacuated after the aircraft landed in Benin. There were no injuries reported,” Ola said.
He added that arrangements had been made to transport passengers to their final destination.
“We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey was disrupted. The safety and well-being of passengers is always our priority at Arik Air,” he said.
Confirming the incident, NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, said the aircraft experienced an in-flight engine anomaly.
Abnormal indications on the engine prompted a precautionary shutdown and diversion.
“The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported,” Oladeji said.
The NSIB has begun a full investigation under international standards set by ICAO Annex 13. A preliminary assessment team has been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The bureau said a preliminary report would be issued within 30 days, with a final report to follow upon completion of the investigation.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
