An Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft, with registration 5N-MJF, en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt on a scheduled domestic service, developed an engine issue mid-flight on Wednesday and was diverted safely to Benin Airport, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the NSIB, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji.
According to the statement, the flight crew observed irregular readings from one of the aircraft’s engines while cruising.
Adhering to established safety protocols, the crew carried out a precautionary shutdown of the affected engine and rerouted the aircraft to the nearest appropriate airport.
The Bureau stated that the plane landed safely, with all passengers and crew disembarking without incident. No injuries were recorded.
Preliminary checks conducted at Benin Airport indicate substantial damage to the affected engine, based on an initial visual inspection.
In accordance with its statutory responsibilities and international guidelines under ICAO Annex 13, the NSIB has launched an investigation into the incident.
A preliminary investigation team is currently heading to Benin to secure the aircraft, gather evidence, interview relevant crew members and witnesses, and retrieve flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The Bureau said it is collaborating with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders to establish the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors.
A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while the final report will be released at the end of the investigation.
“The safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains our highest priority,” Mrs. Oladeji said.
She urged anyone with useful information to reach out to the Bureau through its official communication channels.
The NSIB assured that additional updates would be provided as more details emerge.