By Adeyemi David
Passengers aboard an Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt experienced a tense moment on Wednesday after the aircraft reported an in-flight engine anomaly and was forced to divert to Benin Airport, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
The NSIB, in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, said the flight crew detected abnormal indications on one of the engines during the cruise phase.
Following safety protocols, the crew carried out a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport.
The aircraft landed safely at Benin Airport, and all passengers and crew disembarked without injury. Preliminary assessments at the airport, however, indicate significant damage to the affected engine based on an initial visual inspection.
In line with its mandate and international aviation standards under ICAO Annex 13, the NSIB has launched an investigation. A preliminary assessment team is en route to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The Bureau confirmed it is working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and any contributing factors. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, with a final report to be released at the conclusion of the investigation.
“The safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains our highest priority,” Mrs. Oladeji said, urging the public to provide any relevant information through official channels.
The NSIB assured that further updates would be shared as more information becomes available.
