Arik Air 737 Makes Emergency Landing After Engine Failure – Video

An Arik Air Boeing 737-700 made an emergency landing on February 11 after crew members reported hearing a “loud bang” from the aircraft’s left engine during flight.

Flight W3 740 was operating from Lagos to Port Harcourt with 80 passengers on board when the incident occurred. According to the airline, the aircraft was descending toward Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew detected the abnormal noise and initiated a precautionary diversion to Benin Airport.

Arik Air confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and that there were no injuries to passengers or crew. “All 80 passengers on board were safely disembarked,” the airline said in a statement, adding that alternative travel arrangements were made to transport passengers to Port Harcourt. The carrier apologized for the disruption and reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority.

Videos circulating on social media showed visible damage to the aircraft’s left engine while the plane was still airborne. The engine appeared charred and partially mangled, and after landing, footage showed sections of the engine cowling hanging loose, exposing internal components.

According to preliminary information cited by the Aviation Safety Network, the aircraft may have experienced a number one engine failure while cruising at approximately 27,000 feet. Photographs from the scene reportedly show the engine inlet missing and both cowlings severely torn. One fan blade appears to be absent, suggesting a possible fan blade off event, while other blades show signs of damage. Observers also noted impact damage on the leading edge of the vertical stabilizer.

Modern jet engines are designed with containment features to prevent catastrophic failure in the event of internal damage. Pilots are trained to handle engine malfunctions by shutting down the affected engine and proceeding to the nearest suitable airport, which appears to have been the course of action in this case.

An official investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the engine failure and assess any contributing factors.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com/