Arik Air Boeing 737 Engine Explodes Mid-Flight, Forces Emergency Landing in Benin
Passengers aboard a short-haul Arik Air flight captured terrifying footage as one of the aircraft's engines violently exploded into fragments mid-air, prompting an immediate emergency landing. The Boeing 737-7GL, operating as flight W3 740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt with 80 passengers onboard, encountered a catastrophic failure of its left engine shortly after departure.
Emergency Procedures Activated After Loud Bang
According to an official statement from Arik Air, cabin crew members reported hearing a loud bang shortly after takeoff and promptly enacted established emergency protocols. Despite the dramatic engine failure, the aircraft successfully diverted to Benin Airport using its remaining operational engine, with no injuries reported among passengers or crew.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the aircraft experienced what they termed an 'in-flight engine anomaly' and has dispatched a preliminary assessment team to Benin. This team will secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview relevant personnel and witnesses, and recover critical flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
Multiple Agencies Launch Investigation
NSIB officials stated they are working closely with both the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and Arik Air management to determine the exact cause of the engine explosion and identify any contributing factors. The investigation remains ongoing as aviation authorities examine the damaged engine and review flight data.
An Arik Air spokesperson expressed regret for the disruption to passengers' travel plans, stating: '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.'
Recent Similar Incident Recalled
This alarming event recalls a similar aviation incident from last year involving a Boeing passenger aircraft. In that case, a Condor Airlines flight from Corfu to Düsseldorf with 273 passengers onboard was forced to make an emergency landing after its engine appeared to catch fire.
Passengers on that flight observed flames emanating from the aircraft's engine, with the right wing reportedly spurting fire before experiencing a temporary power outage. Cabin crew noticed disrupted airflow in the right turbine at 36,000 feet altitude, prompting pilots to shut down the affected engine. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Brindisi in southern Italy for an emergency landing after approximately 40 minutes in the air, according to flight tracking service FlightRadar24.
As aviation authorities continue their investigation into the Arik Air incident, the aviation community watches closely for findings that might reveal systemic issues or specific mechanical failures contributing to these dangerous mid-air engine malfunctions.
