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By Newz.Africa Africa Desk | Lagos, Nigeria | 12 February 2026 |Nigerian Arik Air Boeing 737
An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 operating Flight W3 740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt diverted to Benin Airport after the crew detected an abnormal engine event. The incident occurred during descent into Port Harcourt. Airline officials said a loud bang was heard from the left engine, prompting immediate safety procedures.
Arik Air confirms safe landing after diversion
According to Arik Air, the crew shut down the affected engine and diverted to Benin, where the aircraft landed safely. All 80 passengers and crew disembarked without injury. The airline arranged onward transport for passengers to their destinations.
The aircraft involved is a Boeing 737-700, a twin-engine jet designed with multiple redundancies. Aviation experts explained that such diversions are routine safety responses and demonstrate how modern aircraft and pilot training manage unexpected technical events.
NSIB launches investigation into engine incident
Nigeria’s Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed it has opened a formal investigation in line with ICAO standards. Investigators will review technical data, maintenance records, and flight information to determine the cause.
Arik Air emphasised that aviation safety relies on prevention, rapid response, and redundancy. Officials said the event reflected systems functioning as designed.
Similar Incidents
In May 2025, a Diamond training aircraft crash-landed at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin. The Nigerian Tribune reported that both occupants survived, though they sustained injuries requiring medical attention. The incident highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of aircraft to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
Nigeria has also recorded a Boeing 737-400 cargo aircraft incident in December 2024 at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. According to the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives, the aircraft veered off the runway after landing and came to rest in a ditch. All five crew members escaped uninjured. The case underscored how runway excursions remain a risk factor in African aviation, even when fatalities are avoided.
These events, alongside the recent Arik Air diversion, illustrate how aviation safety systems in Nigeria and across Africa continue to be tested by technical anomalies and operational challenges. While Nigeria has recorded only two fatal civil aviation accidents in the past decade, according to the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau, ongoing vigilance and adherence to international standards remain critical for maintaining safe skies.
Original Reporting:
- Facebook post by Captain Callistus Verified airline statement, NSIB confirmation and expert commentary on aviation safety protocols.
- Primary artefact: Facebook video post and NSIB press release announcing investigation into Arik Air Flight W3 740 incident.
- Outreach log: Contacted Arik Air Corporate Communications (11:00 WAT, 12 February) — confirmed details. Contacted NSIB Lagos office (11:30 WAT, 12 February) — confirmation received.
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