NSIB Releases Preliminary Report On Arik Air’s B737 Serious Incident
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released the preliminary report on its ongoing investigation into the serious incident involving a Boeing 737-700 aircraft with nationality and registration marks 5N-MJF, operated by Arik Air Limited.
The occurrence took place on 11 February 2026 during a scheduled passenger flight from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt.
During the flight, the crew reported an abnormal engine event, which prompted emergency procedures and a diversion to the nearest airport – Benin. The aircraft landed safely, and all occupants onboard disembarked without injuries.
According to NSIB, the initial findings show that “while climbing through FL 260 to FL 270, the flight crew heard a loud bang and grinding noise, followed by vibrations from the No. 1 engine. The crew declared MAYDAY, called ATC, and diverted to Benin City airport. The No. 6 fan blade of number 1 engine was missing upon landing at Benin.”
The report of the Non- Destructive Test (NDT) inspection IAW SB72-1033 rev04 carried out by G2 Metric, France, on CFM 56 -7B serial number 805612 indicated that “No defect found on 24 blades inspected of the engine SN 805612” and further Investigative Actions are metallurgical examination of the missing number 6 engine fan blade root, metallurgical examination of the remaining 23 engine fan blades and teardown/stripping of the number 1 engine.
The preliminary report presents the factual information gathered so far, including details from the flight crew, air traffic control communications, flight recorders, and initial examination of the aircraft. The investigation remains ongoing, and further technical examinations are underway.
The preliminary report is available for download on the NSIB website for members of the public and the media.
NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Funke Arowojobe says “the information contained in the preliminary report is subject to further review and analysis. The final report will present the Bureau’s conclusions and safety recommendations.”
