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By Lizzy Chirkpi
An Arik Air aircraft operating a domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday after developing an engine issue mid-flight.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed that the Boeing 737-7GL, with registration number 5N-MJF, encountered abnormal engine indications while cruising.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the Bureau explained that the flight crew acted in line with safety protocols.
“The crew detected abnormal indications on one of the engines during the cruise phase. Following standard safety procedures, they carried out a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport,” the statement said.
NSIB added that the aircraft landed safely at Benin Airport, with all passengers and crew disembarking without any injuries.
“Preliminary observations at Benin Airport suggest significant damage to the affected engine, based on an initial visual assessment. In line with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annex 13, the NSIB has commenced an investigation.
“The 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 stated.
The agency noted that it is collaborating with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders to establish the cause of the incident and contributing factors.