- Arik Air engine fault detected mid-flight
- Boeing 737 diverted to Benin Airport
- Passengers landed safely, no injuries
- NSIB launches investigation
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that an Arik Air Boeing 737 aircraftexperienced an engine problem mid-air while flying from Lagos to Port Harcourt, forcing the plane to divert and land safely at Benin Airport on Wednesday.
The affected aircraft, a Boeing 737-7GL with registration number 5N-MJF, was operating a scheduled domestic flight when the flight crew noticed abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase of the journey.
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Speaking on the incident, NSIB spokesperson Tunji Oladeji said the pilots followed laid-down safety procedures immediately after identifying the issue.
“The flight crew observed abnormal indications on one of the engines and, in line with standard safety protocols, carried out a precautionary engine shutdown before diverting to the nearest suitable airport,” Oladeji stated.
The aircraft later landed safely at Benin Airport, where all passengers and crew members disembarked without incident. The Bureau confirmed that no injuries were recorded.
According to NSIB, a preliminary visual inspection conducted at the airport revealed significant damage to the affected engine. The agency added that a full investigation has now been launched.
“In accordance with our statutory mandate and international obligations under ICAO Annex 13, the Bureau has commenced a detailed investigation into the occurrence,” the statement said.