Manny Ita –
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has released its preliminary report into a serious engine-related incident involving an aircraft operated by Arik Air during a domestic flight earlier this year.
According to the report, the incident occurred on February 11, 2026, when a Boeing 737-700 aircraft operating a scheduled passenger service from Lagos to Port Harcourt experienced a major engine event while in flight.
The bureau stated that the flight crew declared an emergency after noticing abnormal engine indications and subsequently diverted the aircraft to Benin Airport as a precautionary measure.
Authorities confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and that all passengers and crew members disembarked without injury.
In the preliminary findings, the investigation agency said initial data analysis had been carried out using information from the aircraft’s flight recorders as well as testimonies from the flight crew involved in the incident.
“The crew declared an emergency following abnormal engine indications and initiated a diversion to Benin Airport,” the bureau said in the report.
The agency noted that the decision by the crew to divert was taken in accordance with standard safety procedures designed to protect passengers and the aircraft.
“All passengers and crew disembarked safely without injury following the safe landing of the aircraft,” the bureau added.
Investigators said that while the preliminary stage of the investigation had reviewed operational data and crew statements, further technical examinations of the affected engine components were still ongoing.
According to the bureau, specialists are conducting detailed inspections of the engine and related systems in order to determine the precise cause of the malfunction.
“The investigation is continuing with technical examination of engine components and related systems to determine the root cause of the event,” the agency stated.
The bureau explained that preliminary reports are typically released to provide early factual information about aviation incidents while the full investigation remains ongoing.
A final report, which is expected to contain conclusions and possible safety recommendations, will be issued after all technical analyses, operational reviews and engineering assessments have been completed.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau said the objective of the investigation is to improve aviation safety by identifying contributing factors and recommending measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The agency also reiterated that its investigations are conducted to enhance safety and are not intended to apportion blame or liability.
