The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau NSIB confirms that an Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft, registration 5N-MJF, operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos State Southwest Nigeria to Port Harcourt Southern Nigeria earlier today, experienced an in-flight engine anomaly and diverted safely to Benin Airport.
This incident was contained in a Press Statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Bureau, Mrs, Bimbo Olawumi.
The statement revealed that, “During the cruise phase of the 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 aiport in southern 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.”
In line with its statutory mandate and in accordance with international standards under the International Civil Aviation Organisation ICAO Annex 13 and applicable Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the NSIB has commenced an investigation into the occurrence.
“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.
“The NSIB is working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other relevant stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and any contributing factors.
“A Preliminary Report will be issued within 30 days in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 provisions and 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.”