PHOTOS: NSIB investigates Arik Air’s Lagos–Port Harcourt Flight diversion to Benin
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into an engine-related incident involving an Arik Air flight that was forced to divert to Benin Airport while en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-7GL with registration 5N-MJF, was operating a scheduled domestic service when the crew detected abnormal engine […]
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into an engine-related incident involving an Arik Air flight that was forced to divert to Benin Airport while en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737-7GL with registration 5N-MJF, was operating a scheduled domestic service when the crew detected abnormal engine indications during the flight.
According to the safety bureau, the pilots observed irregular readings on one of the engines during the cruise phase and, in line with standard aviation safety procedures, carried out a precautionary engine shutdown before diverting to the nearest suitable airport.
The aircraft landed safely at Benin without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries were reported.
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Initial inspections at the diversion airport revealed significant damage to the affected engine based on a preliminary visual assessment.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the bureau, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, the NSIB said it has commenced a formal investigation in accordance with its statutory mandate and international safety standards under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 13, as well as Nigerian civil aviation regulations.
The bureau stated that a preliminary assessment team has been dispatched to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview crew members and witnesses, and retrieve the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder to determine the sequence of events and possible contributing factors.
The bureau added that it is working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders as part of the probe.
A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.
While reiterating that the safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains its top priority, NSIB encouraged anyone with relevant information about the incident to contact the bureau through official channels.
The statement said, “A Final Report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.
“The safety of passengers, crew, and the public remains our highest priority. The NSIB encourages any member of the public with relevant information regarding this occurrence to contact the Bureau through its official channels. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
