NSIB to commence probe on faulty Arik airplane

CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO

The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says it is working closely with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors to the Arik aircraft incident.

Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau in a statement, said the agency has commenced an investigation into the occurrence with a preliminary assessment team enroute 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 will be issued within 30 days in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 provisions while Final Report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.

It stated further that the safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains  highest priority and encourages any member of the public with relevant information regarding this occurrence to contact the Bureau through its official channels.

Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft, registration 5N-MJF, operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos (LOS) to Port Harcourt (PHC) Wednesday, experienced an in-flight engine anomaly and diverted safely to Benin Airport (BNI).

During the cruise phase of flight, the crew detected abnormal indications on one of the engines.

In accordance with established safety procedures, the flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin.

The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported.

Preliminary observations at the diversion airport indicate significant damage to the affected engine based on initial visual assessment.

Arik in a statement about the incident stated that, “Arik Air’s Boeing 737-700 aircraft operating flight W3 740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt today, February 11, 2026, diverted to Benin Airport after the operating crew heard a loud bang on the left engine. The aircraft was on its decent to Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa when the incident happened and as a precautionary measure, the crew had to make a safe diversion to Benin.

“There were no injuries to passengers and crew as all 80 passengers on board were safely disembarked. Arrangements have been made to transport the affected passengers to their final destination.

“We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey has been disrupted. The safety and wellbeing of passengers is always our priority at Arik Air.”