By Gabriella Chinwendu Ayigbo.
An Arik Air Boeing aircraft, registration number 5N-MJE, en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt, made a precautionary landing at Benin Airport on Wednesday, 11 February, following a significant engine malfunction.
According to Mr Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the flight was diverted after the flight crew observed an abnormal engine indication during the cruise phase of the journey. In line with standard safety procedures, the crew carried out a precautionary engine shutdown and subsequently diverted the aircraft to Benin Airport.
The aircraft landed safely in Benin, and all passengers and crew disembarked without incident. The NSIB confirmed that no injuries were recorded. A preliminary visual inspection conducted at the airport revealed substantial damage to the affected engine.
The NSIB further stated that it is collaborating closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident.