Arik aircraft makes emergency landing in Benin; all 80 passengers unharmed

An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 operating a Lagos–Port Harcourt flight made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday after the crew detected a loud bang from one of the aircraft’s engines.

The aircraft, registered as 5N-MJF and operating flight W3 740 from Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, was descending into Port Harcourt when the crew heard the noise from the left engine. As a precaution, the pilots shut down the affected engine and diverted safely to Benin.

Arik Air confirmed that all 80 passengers and crew members on board were safely evacuated after landing, with no injuries recorded. The airline said arrangements were made to transport passengers to their final destination and apologised for the disruption, stressing that passenger safety remains its top priority.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the incident, describing it as an in-flight engine anomaly. According to the bureau, abnormal engine indications prompted a precautionary shutdown and diversion to the nearest suitable airport.

The aircraft landed without incident, and all occupants disembarked normally. Preliminary visual assessments at the diversion airport indicated significant damage to the affected engine.

The NSIB said it has commenced a full investigation in line with its statutory mandate and international standards under ICAO Annex 13. A preliminary assessment team has been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.

A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation