Manny Ita –
An Arik Air flight en route from Port Harcourt to Lagos on Wednesday made an emergency landing at the Benin Airport following an engine failure mid-air, aviation authorities have confirmed.
The aircraft, which departed the Port Harcourt International Airport in the afternoon, reportedly developed a technical fault shortly after takeoff. According to preliminary reports, one of the engines experienced a malfunction, prompting the flight crew to declare an emergency and divert to the nearest suitable airport.
A source within the airline said the pilot acted in accordance with standard aviation safety procedures. “The captain noticed abnormal engine readings and immediately initiated safety protocols. The decision to divert to Benin was precautionary and in the interest of passenger safety,” the source stated.
The plane landed safely at the Benin Airport, where emergency response teams were placed on standby as a precaution. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.
One passenger described the experience as tense but controlled. “We heard a loud sound and noticed the aircraft shaking slightly. The pilot later informed us that there was a technical issue and that we would be landing in Benin. The landing was smooth, and we are grateful to be safe,” the passenger said.
Officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria confirmed that emergency services were activated immediately after the distress call was received. “Our emergency response teams were fully mobilised and positioned before the aircraft touched down. Thankfully, the landing was successful and orderly,” an official said.
Arik Air, in a brief statement, assured passengers that safety remains its top priority. The airline said its technical team would conduct a comprehensive assessment of the aircraft before it returns to service. “We regret the inconvenience caused to our valued passengers and appreciate their calm cooperation during the situation,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is expected to review the incident in line with standard aviation oversight procedures. Further details regarding the cause of the engine failure are expected after technical inspections are completed.
Flight operations at the Benin Airport were not significantly disrupted following the emergency landing, airport authorities confirmed.
