The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that an Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft experienced an in-flight engine problem on Wednesday while operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt.
The aircraft, with registration number 5N-MJF, was forced to divert mid-journey and landed safely at Benin Airport without incident. All passengers and crew reportedly disembarked normally, with no injuries recorded.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji. According to the bureau, the flight crew noticed abnormal indications from one of the engines during the cruise phase of the flight.
In line with established aviation safety procedures, the pilots carried out a precautionary shutdown of the affected engine and opted to divert to the nearest suitable airport amid the tense situation.
Preliminary findings from an initial visual assessment conducted at Benin Airport suggested that the affected engine sustained significant damage. The NSIB confirmed that a full investigation has commenced in accordance with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annex 13.
An assessment team has been dispatched to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data as well as cockpit voice recorder information.
The bureau 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 possible contributing factors.
The outcome of the investigation, according to the NSIB, will guide safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.