The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has detailed extensive damage to an Arik Air Boeing 737-700 following a mid-flight engine anomaly on February 11, 2026. The aircraft, operating from Lagos to Ile-Ife, diverted safely to Benin City after the crew detected a loud bang, grinding noise, and vibrations from the No. 1 engine during climb. Preliminary findings confirm at least 23 separate components were impacted, with critical engine parts missing or severely compromised.
According to the NSIB’s initial report, the aircraft’s engine inlet cowling was lost, and the sixth fan blade on the affected engine was fractured, its root still attached. The remaining 23 fan blades sustained chipping and damage. Both inboard and outboard engine cowling covers were bent upward, exposing internal accessories. The inspection documented multiple cuts and cracks on the engine’s containment case, missing outlet guide vanes, a compromised engine-driven pump, and damage to the integrated drive generator oil cooler and anti-ice duct. Structural impacts extended to the left wing leading edge, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, thrust reversers, and various airframe sections with dents and punctures. The sixth fan blade itself was not found on landing.
The flight crew, consisting of a licensed captain and first officer, executed emergency procedures promptly. They declared a MAYDAY, informed air traffic control, and landed without injury to the 126 passengers and six crew members. Post-incident testing cleared both pilots of alcohol, drugs, or other psychoactive substances. The aircraft held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness at the time.
The NSIB report synthesizes data from flight crew interviews, air traffic communications, flight recorder analysis, and physical examination. While the immediate causes remain under investigation, the bureau confirmed that communication between the cockpit and controllers remained effective throughout the emergency. The incident underscores ongoing scrutiny of aircraft engine integrity and in-flight emergency protocols within Nigeria’s aviation sector. The full investigation will focus on determining the sequence of events leading to the engine failure and recommending safety measures to prevent recurrence. A final report will be issued upon completion of the comprehensive inquiry.
