By Simeon OSAJIE
Eighty passengers who boarded Arik Air Boeing 737-700 on Wednesday engaged in marathon prayers as the pilot made an emergency diversion to Benin City Airport after a loud explosion-like noise was reported from one of its engines during its approach to Port Harcourt.
The aircraft, operating Flight W3 740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt, was descending into its destination when the flight crew detected what was later described as an engine anomaly. As a precautionary measure, the pilots redirected the plane to Benin Airport, where it landed safely without further incident.
Aviation officials subsequently confirmed that the aircraft’s left engine sustained substantial damage. Despite the mid-air scare, all passengers and crew members disembarked calmly, and no injuries were reported.
Arik Air arranged onward transportation for affected passengers to Port Harcourt and issued an apology for the inconvenience caused. The airline reiterated that passenger safety remains its highest priority.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced a comprehensive probe into the incident. Investigators have been dispatched to secure the aircraft and collect critical evidence, including flight data and cockpit voice recordings. Authorities indicated that a preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.