The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into a serious engine-related incident involving an Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL on flight W3 740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt. The aircraft, carrying at least 80 passengers, was forced to divert to Benin Airport on Wednesday after the crew detected abnormal engine indications mid-flight.
According to NSIB spokesperson Bimbo Oladeji, the crew carried out a precautionary shutdown of the affected engine and diverted in line with safety procedures. However, Arik Air’s Public Relations Manager Adebanji Ola described the incident differently, saying the crew heard a “loud bang” from the left engine while descending into Port Harcourt. The conflicting accounts have raised questions about the severity of the failure and transparency in public communication.
Passengers were safely disembarked in Benin, though preliminary assessments reportedly indicated significant engine damage. NSIB confirmed that a team has been dispatched to secure the aircraft, collect evidence, and retrieve flight data and cockpit voice recordings. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, with a final report to follow.
The bureau is working with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other stakeholders to determine the sequence of events. While safety protocols were followed and the crew executed a safe diversion, the incident underscores persistent concerns about aircraft maintenance standards and operational oversight in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
For Arik Air, which has faced operational and financial turbulence in recent years, the episode adds pressure to demonstrate strict adherence to safety and maintenance practices. The event serves as a reminder that aviation systems must function flawlessly, with no margin for complacency. Passengers were later transported to their final destination.
By Kehinde Ibrahim, Lagos
