An Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt on Wednesday diverted safely to Benin Airport following an in-flight engine anomaly, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed.
The aircraft, with registration 5N-MJF, experienced abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase of the flight. In line with standard safety procedures, the flight crew carried out a precautionary shutdown of the affected engine and diverted to the nearest suitable airport.
The aircraft landed safely in Benin without incident. All passengers and crew disembarked normally, and no injuries were reported.
Preliminary visual assessments conducted at the diversion airport indicated significant damage to the affected engine.
The NSIB said it has commenced an investigation into the occurrence in accordance with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annexe 13, as well as applicable Nigerian civil aviation regulations.
A preliminary assessment team is en route to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and retrieve data from the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder.
The Bureau 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.
In line with ICAO provisions, a preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a final report will be issued at the conclusion of the investigation.
The NSIB reiterated that the safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains its highest priority and urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Bureau through its official channels.
