Arik Air Flight diverts to Benin after engine scare during descent to Port Harcourt

An Arik Air flight en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt was forced to divert to Benin on Wednesday after the crew reported hearing a loud bang from one of the aircraft’s engines while descending.

The airline disclosed that the Boeing 737-700 aircraft, bearing registration number 5N-MJF, was operating flight W3 740 on February 11, 2026, when the incident occurred.

According to a statement issued by the airline, the aircraft was on descent into the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, when the operating crew detected what it described as “a loud bang on the left engine.”

Arik Air stated that the crew immediately activated standard safety procedures and opted for a precautionary diversion to the Benin Airport to ensure passenger safety.

“As a precautionary measure, the crew had to make a safe diversion to Benin,” the airline said.

The carrier confirmed that no injuries were recorded, adding that all 80 passengers onboard were safely disembarked after landing in Benin.

“There were no injuries to passengers and crew as all 80 passengers on board were safely disembarked. Arrangements have been made to transport the affected passengers to their final destination,” the statement added.

Arik Air apologised to passengers whose travel plans were disrupted, reiterating that safety remains its top priority.

“We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey has been disrupted. The safety and wellbeing of passengers is always our priority at Arik Air,” the airline said.

The aircraft is expected to undergo further technical checks in line with aviation safety protocols.