An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 aircraft made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Tuesday after experiencing an in-flight engine anomaly during a scheduled domestic service from Lagos to Port Harcourt.
The aircraft, registered 5N-MJF and operating flight W3 740, reportedly developed abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase of the flight. According to passengers onboard, a loud bang was heard from the left engine shortly before the captain announced that the aircraft would be diverting as a precautionary measure.
Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the flight had departed the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, and was en route to Port Harcourt International Airport when the cockpit crew observed unusual engine performance parameters. In line with standard aviation safety procedures, the pilots promptly initiated safety checks and opted to divert to the nearest suitable airport.
Passengers recounted moments of anxiety following the loud noise but commended the crew for maintaining calm and providing reassurance throughout the situation. “We heard a bang and some people became nervous, but the captain quickly addressed us and explained that we were diverting to Benin as a safety precaution,” one passenger said.
The aircraft landed safely at the Benin Airport without further incident. Emergency response teams were reportedly on standby as a precaution, but there was no need for evacuation. All passengers disembarked normally.
Airline officials are yet to release a detailed statement as of press time, but aviation sources indicate that the aircraft will undergo thorough technical inspection by maintenance engineers before being cleared for further operations.
Industry experts note that engine anomalies, while rare, are handled through strict safety protocols designed to prioritise passenger safety. Modern commercial aircraft such as the Boeing 737 are certified to safely operate on a single engine if necessary, allowing pilots to land at the nearest suitable airport.
There were no reports of injuries among passengers or crew members. Arrangements were said to be underway to transport affected passengers to their final destination.
The incident underscores the critical role of routine monitoring systems and crew training in ensuring flight safety within Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector. Aviation authorities are expected to review the occurrence in line with standard safety oversight procedures.
