An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 operating a Lagos to Port Harcourt service was forced to divert to Benin Airport on Wednesday after the crew reported hearing a “loud bang” from the aircraft’s left engine.
In a statement, Arik Air said the aircraft, which was operating flight W3-740 with registration number 5N-MJF, was descending into Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, when the incident occurred.
According to the airline, the flight crew took a precautionary decision to divert the aircraft to 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 airline said.
Arik Air apologised for the disruption to passengers’ travel plans.
“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 statement added.
