Arik Air Engine Failure Led to Damage of 23 Aircraft Components, NSIB Report Reveals

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has issued a preliminary report detailing a significant incident involving an Arik Air Boeing 737-700 aircraft (registration 5N-MJF) that experienced an engine explosion.

The aircraft was operating a scheduled passenger service from Lagos' Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport on February 11, 2026, when the emergency unfolded.

According to the NSIB's findings, the mid-air engine failure caused substantial damage, affecting a minimum of 23 separate aircraft components.

The aircraft, carrying 87 passengers and seven crew members, was en route to Port Harcourt after departing Lagos. While ascending towards flight level 290, the flight crew heard a loud detonation originating from the left engine.

This sudden noise was accompanied by severe vibrations and a grinding sound, indicating a critical mechanical issue.

The engine malfunction caused the aircraft to drift slightly to the left and lose airspeed. The pilots subsequently disengaged the autopilot to regain manual control and stabilise the aircraft while they evaluated the engine's condition.

Upon confirming extensive damage to the number-one engine, the crew executed emergency procedures by shutting it down and issued a Mayday distress call to air traffic control.

Air traffic controllers recommended the flight divert to the closest suitable airport, Benin Airport in Benin City, as a safer alternative to continuing to Port Harcourt.

The aircraft executed a safe landing at Benin approximately 30 minutes after the Mayday call, and all passengers and crew were able to disembark without sustaining any injuries.

Subsequent investigations by NSIB inspectors uncovered the full extent of the damage stemming from the engine failure.

The report indicates that the number six fan blade within the aircraft's CFM56-7B engine fractured during the flight, initiating a cascade of damage to numerous other engine parts and the aircraft's structure.

Investigators observed that the engine's inlet cowling was missing, and the remaining 23 fan blades showed signs of chipping and wear. The engine cowling covers were also dislodged, exposing internal engine mechanisms.

Further examination revealed deep gouges and fractures on the engine containment case, missing outlet guide vanes, damage to the engine-driven pump, and a fractured anti-ice duct. The exhaust assembly also exhibited visible damage, and the engine oil tank filler cap was unaccounted for.

In addition to the damage sustained by the engine itself, fragments from the failed fan blade impacted various sections of the aircraft, resulting in dents, punctures, and structural compromise.

Damage was recorded on the left wing's leading edge, the left-hand vortex generator, and the Integrated Drive Generator oil cooler. The inner and outer thrust reversers also suffered damage.

Additional damage was noted on the aircraft's air-conditioning bay fairing, horizontal stabiliser, vertical stabiliser, and rudder surface, confirming that debris from the engine failure impacted multiple areas of the airframe.

Despite the severity of the engine failure, the NSIB acknowledged the flight crew's proficient handling of the emergency situation and maintained that communication with air traffic control remained clear and effective throughout the event.