By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Tragedy was averted on Wednesday after an Arik Air aircraft operating a Lagos–Port Harcourt flight suffered an engine malfunction mid-air, forcing the crew to divert to Benin Airport.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has since commenced an investigation into the incident involving the Boeing 737-700 (registration 5N-MJF), which operated flight W3 740 on February 11, 2026.
According to reports, the aircraft had departed Lagos and was descending into Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, when the operating crew heard a loud bang from the left engine. The crew also observed abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase of the flight.
In line with established safety procedures, the pilots carried out a precautionary engine shutdown and opted to divert to the nearest suitable airport, Benin. The aircraft landed safely without incident, and all 80 passengers on board were disembarked without injuries.
In a statement signed by Arik Air’s PR and Communications Manager, Adebanji Ola, the airline confirmed the diversion, stressing that the decision was taken purely as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety. The airline apologised to affected passengers and said arrangements had been made to transport them to Port Harcourt.
Confirming the development, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, said preliminary visual assessment at the diversion airport indicated significant damage to the affected engine.
She stated that, in accordance with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annex 13, the Bureau has deployed a preliminary assessment team to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The NSIB added that it is working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and any contributing factors.
The incident underscores the effectiveness of aviation safety protocols and the professionalism of the flight crew, whose prompt response ensured that what could have been a tragic occurrence ended without loss of life.
