On Feb 11th, 2026, an Arik Air Boeing 737-700, registration 5N-MJF, operating flight W3-740 from Lagos to Port Harcourt, Nigeria, suffered an in-flight engine failure that forced a swift diversion.
With 80 people on board, the aircraft was climbing through FL270 after departing Lagos when a loud bang erupted from the left-hand CFM56 engine. The noise was immediately followed by abnormal engine indications, prompting the crew to take decisive action. The pilots shut down the affected engine in accordance with standard procedures and assessed their options.
Given the circumstances, the crew elected to divert to Benin City, positioning the aircraft for an expedited landing. Approximately 25 minutes after the engine failure, the 737 landed safely on runway 23 in Benin City. Emergency services were on standby, and the aircraft taxied clear without further incident.
Nigeria’s National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has opened an investigation into the occurrence, reporting that the engine sustained substantial damage. The inquiry will focus on determining the source of the failure and any contributing factors.
The safe outcome underscores the effectiveness of engine-out procedures and crew training, allowing the flight to conclude without injuries despite the sudden mechanical malfunction at cruising altitude.
