11.2.2026
Cabin crew of an Arik Air Boeing 737-700 made an emergency landing in Benin City, Edo State averting what could have been fatal crash.
The aircraft was travelling from Lagos to Port Harcourt with 80 passengers on Wednesday morning but on the descent to the Port Harcourt International Airport, a loud sound was heard in one of the plane’s engines causing significant damage.
Arik Air’s spokesperson, Adebanjo Ola, said in a statement: “The aircraft was on its descent to Port Harcourt when the operating crew heard a loud bang on the left engine. As a precautionary measure, the crew made 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,” the airline stated.
The NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed the flight experienced an engine anomaly midair. She explained that unusual indications were detected on one engine, leading to a precautionary shutdown and diversion to the nearest suitable airport.
“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,” she stated.
The bureau has initiated a full investigation following international standards under ICAO Annex 13. Preliminary checks at Benin Airport revealed major damage to the engine based on visual inspection.
“A preliminary 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,” NSIB said.
According to the bureau, a preliminary report will be available within 30 days, with the final report released after the investigation is completed.
Blown up...Arik Airplane with engine trouble.