An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 operating a Lagos–Port Harcourt service made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday after the crew detected a loud bang from one of the aircraft’s engines.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) later confirmed that the incident involved significant damage to the affected engine, though no injuries were recorded.
In a statement, Arik Air spokesperson Adebanjo Ola said the aircraft, with registration number 5N-MJF, was operating flight W3 740 from the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos to the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, when the incident occurred during descent.
“The aircraft was on its descent to Port Harcourt when the operating crew heard a loud bang on the left engine. As a precautionary measure, the crew made a safe diversion to Benin,” Ola said.
He added that all 80 passengers and crew members on board were safely evacuated after landing, and alternative arrangements were made to convey passengers to their final destination.
“There were no injuries to passengers and crew as all 80 passengers on board were safely disembarked. Arrangements have been made to transport the affected passengers to their final destination,” the statement said.
Arik Air apologised for the disruption, stressing that passenger safety remained its top priority.
Confirming the development, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, said the aircraft experienced an in-flight engine anomaly after abnormal indications were detected.
“In accordance with established safety procedures, the flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin. The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported,” she said.
The NSIB disclosed that it had commenced a full investigation in line with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annex 13. Preliminary checks at the diversion airport indicated significant damage to the affected engine.
According to the bureau, a preliminary assessment team has been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The NSIB said a preliminary report would be issued within 30 days, with a final report to follow at the conclusion of the investigation.
