NSIB Releases Report on Arik Air Incident, Says Crew Tested Negative for Drugs
A Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau preliminary report has revealed that an Arik Air aircraft sustained extensive damage after an in-flight engine anomaly forced the plane to divert from its scheduled route.
The incident occurred on February 11 when a Boeing 737-700 operated by Arik Air, flying from Lagos to Port Harcourt, was diverted to Benin City after the crew reportedly heard a loud bang from the aircraft’s left engine.
The aircraft, operating flight W3-740 with registration 5N-MJF, was descending into Port Harcourt International Airport when the anomaly occurred.
There were 87 occupants on board the aircraft, comprising 80 passengers and seven crew members.
According to the report, the aircraft was climbing from flight level 260 to flight level 290 when the crew heard a loud bang followed by excessive vibration from the number one (left) engine.
A post-occurrence inspection carried out by the bureau on the aircraft at the apron of Benin Airport revealed extensive damage to the engine and other parts of the aircraft.
The bureau said the engine inlet cowling was missing, while the number six fan blade of the engine had broken off, leaving only the root attached.
It added that the remaining 23 fan blades were chipped and damaged, while the inboard and outboard engine cowling covers were folded upward, exposing engine accessories.
The report stated that the engine-driven pump clamp was also found loose.
It further revealed that a deep cut measuring about 0.6 inches was observed on the containment case at the two o’clock position, while another deep cut measuring about 7.2 inches was seen at the one o’clock position.
Cracks were also observed on the exterior of the engine containment case.
The bureau said the outlet guide vanes at the five, six and seven o’clock positions were missing, while the engine-driven pump and exhaust assembly showed visible damage.
Investigators also discovered that the engine oil tank filler cap was missing and the anti-ice duct was broken, with part of it missing.
Other affected components included the left-hand vortex generator and the integrated drive generator oil cooler.
The bureau said the aircraft’s airframe also suffered multiple dents and punctures, while the inner and outer thrust reversers were damaged.
Cuts were also found on the left wing leading edge and the left-wing air-conditioning bay fairing.
Additional damage was recorded on the left horizontal stabiliser leading edge and the upper surface of the stabiliser, which had large cuts.
The report added that the vertical stabiliser leading edge and the rudder surface were also damaged.
The bureau classified the aircraft as substantially damaged but confirmed that no injuries were recorded among the occupants.
It added that communication between air traffic control and the flight crew remained effective throughout the incident.
According to the bureau, post-occurrence medical examinations carried out on the flight crew showed that they tested negative for alcohol, drugs and other psychoactive substances.
The agency said further investigation will include metallurgical examination of the broken number six engine fan blade root and the remaining fan blades, as well as a teardown of the number one engine.
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.
