By joshua 
Arik Air Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Benin After Suspected Engine Failure
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin city
An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 carrying 80 passengers and crew made an emergency diversion to Benin Airport on Wednesday 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 w
hat was later described as an engine anomaly. As a precautionary measure, the pilots redirected the plane to Benin, 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.