Nigeria probes Arik plane's mid-air engine 'bang'
Investigators have been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft and begin evidence collection.
Nigerian aviation authorities have opened an investigation after an Arik Air commercial flight was forced to divert and make an emergency landing following an engine malfunction while approaching its destination.
The plane suffered a mid-air engine blast as it travelled from Lagos, the commercial capital, to the oil-rich city of Port Harcourt, forcing it to make an emergency landing.
The aircraft, belonging to Arik Air, one of the country's major airlines, diverted to Benin city, where it made an emergency landing following a ''loud bang'' from its engine.
Confirming the incident, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said in a statement abnormal engine indications were detected mid-flight, leading to a controlled shutdown of the engine before diversion.
Safety procedures
NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, said the crew followed established procedures.
“In accordance with established safety procedures, the flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin,” she said. “The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported.”
The bureau noted that preliminary inspection showed serious damage to the engine.
“Preliminary observations at the diversion airport indicate significant damage to the affected engine based on initial visual assessment,” the agency stated.
Investigators have been deployed to Benin to secure the aircraft and begin evidence collection.
Early findings
“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 bureau said.
Arik Air spokesperson Adebanjo Ola said the crew reacted immediately after hearing an unusual sound from one of the engines.
“The aircraft was on its descent to Port Harcourt when the operating crew heard a loud bang on the left engine,” Ola said. “As a precautionary measure, the crew made a safe diversion to Benin.”
The aircraft subsequently landed safely at Benin Airport, where all passengers and crew disembarked without incident. The airline confirmed that the flight was carrying 80 passengers and crew members at the time.
“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 added.
The NSIB said a preliminary investigation report is expected within 30 days, while a final report will be issued after the full investigation is completed.
Authorities are expected to determine the precise cause of the engine failure and recommend any safety measures required to prevent future occurrences.