An Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL experienced a mid-air engine explosion shortly after take-off from Lagos, forcing an emergency landing at Benin. The flight, W3 740, was en route to Port Harcourt with 80 passengers on board when the left engine failed.
According to Arik Air, cabin crew heard a loud bang soon after departure and immediately enacted emergency procedures. The aircraft landed safely on one engine, and no injuries were reported. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed an 'in-flight engine anomaly' and has launched a preliminary investigation.
An NSIB spokesperson stated that a team is en route to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information. The bureau is working with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and Arik Air to determine the cause and contributing factors.
Arik Air apologised to affected passengers, emphasising that safety and well-being remain their top priority. The investigation into the engine explosion is ongoing. This incident follows a similar event last year when a Condor Airlines Boeing had to make an emergency landing after an engine fire.
