Arik Air Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Benin

Arik Air Flight Diverts Mid-Air

An Arik Air Boeing 737 aircraft made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday, February 11, after experiencing an engine failure during a flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt.

The aircraft, registered 5N-MJF and operating as flight W3 740, reportedly developed abnormal engine indications while in flight.

Passengers Hear Loud Bang

Passengers on board reported hearing a loud bang from the left engine during the cruise phase of the journey.

Confirming the incident, Arik Air’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, Adebanji Ola, said the sound prompted the flight crew to divert the aircraft as a precautionary measure.

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Safe Diversion to Benin

According to the airline, the aircraft was on its descent to Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, when the engine anomaly occurred.

Following established safety procedures, the crew conducted a safe diversion to Benin Airport, where the aircraft landed without further incident.

All Passengers Disembarked Safely

Arik Air confirmed that all 80 passengers and crew members were unharmed and safely disembarked after landing.

The airline said arrangements had been made to transport affected passengers to their final destination.

“We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey has been disrupted. The safety and wellbeing of our passengers is always our priority at Arik Air,” the statement said.

NSIB Launches Investigation

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the incident.

In a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, the NSIB said the aircraft experienced an “in-flight engine anomaly.”

Preliminary Findings

According to the NSIB, abnormal engine indications were detected during the cruise phase, prompting a precautionary engine shutdown and diversion to the nearest suitable airport.

Preliminary observations at Benin Airport indicated significant damage to the affected engine, based on initial visual assessment.

Investigation Process Underway

The NSIB said a preliminary assessment team is en route to Benin to:

• Secure the aircraft
• Document evidence
• Interview crew, personnel and witnesses
• Recover flight data and cockpit voice recorders

The investigation is being conducted in line with ICAO Annex 13 and Nigerian civil aviation regulations.