The destination was Port Harcourt after taking off at the Lagos Airport. But mid air while approaching the destination on Wednesday February 11, the Pilot in Command of Arik Air Boeing 737-700 decided that proceeding with the planned landing at the Port Harcourt Airport was going to be dangerous going by the signals he was getting from the engine of the plane. Then a loud bang that shook the aircraft and spread fear across the troubled aircraft. Imminent danger loomed.
The pilot decided to abort the descent and he chose an emergency landing at the Benin Airport.
The impact damaged the aircraft Engine significantly but the 80 passengers and crew members escaped unhurt.
The Airline Spokesman , Banji Ola tells the story of the Close Shave:
“The aircraft was on its descent to Port Harcourt when the operating crew heard a loud bang on the left engine. As a precautionary measure, the crew made a safe diversion to Benin.
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.
We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey has been disrupted. The safety and well-being of passengers is always our priority at Arik Air.
Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau’s Statement:
“In accordance with established safety procedures, the flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin.
The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported.
Preliminary observations at the diversion airport indicate significant damage to the affected engine based on initial visual assessment.
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.
Mrs Bimbo Oladeji. Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance NSIB, , said the aircraft experienced an in-flight engine anomaly.