AN Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt experienced an in-flight engine anomaly on Wednesday but landed safely at the Benin Airport following a precautionary diversion.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the development in a statement sent to News Point Nigeria by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji.
According to the Bureau, the aircraft, registered as 5N-MJF, encountered abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase of the flight.
The flight crew reportedly detected the irregular readings and, in line with established aviation safety protocols, initiated a precautionary shutdown of the affected engine before diverting to the nearest suitable airport.
“The crew acted in accordance with standard safety procedures after noticing abnormal indications on one of the engines,” the statement said. “A precautionary engine shutdown was conducted, and the aircraft was diverted safely.”
The plane subsequently landed without incident at the Benin Airport. All passengers and crew members disembarked normally, and no injuries were reported.
Preliminary visual assessments conducted after landing indicated significant damage to the affected engine, the Bureau disclosed. However, the full extent and cause of the damage are yet to be determined.
In compliance with its statutory mandate and international obligations under ICAO Annex 13, the NSIB has commenced a formal investigation into the occurrence.
A preliminary assessment team has been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft, document physical evidence, interview crew members and relevant witnesses, and retrieve data from the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder.
The Bureau stated that it is collaborating closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other aviation stakeholders to establish the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors.
A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a comprehensive final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.
Mrs. Oladeji reiterated that passenger safety remains paramount.
“The safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains our highest priority,” she said.
She also encouraged members of the public who may have relevant information about the incident to contact the Bureau through its official communication channels.
The NSIB assured that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and more details become available.