Boeing 737 forced to divert as malfunction causes ‘loud bang’ shocking passengers

Dramatic images show the plane’s engine torn open with its outer casing completely ripped away

A Boeing 737 was forced to divert after a malfunction caused a ‘loud bang’, shocking 80 passengers onboard. The dramatic incident happened on an Arik Air flight W3740 departing from Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos to Port Harcourt in Nigeria.

On Wednesday morning (February 11) an “abnormal malfunction” in the plane’s engine forced it to divert to Benin Airport, the closest suitable landing site. Dramatic images show the plane’s engine torn open with its outer casing completely ripped away, leaving internal wiring, pipes and mechanical components exposed.

The Mirror reports the plane was carrying 80 passengers who were ‘not injured’ according to officials. After the cabin was rocked by the massive bang and pilots noticed unusual readings from the engine, the flight crew followed standard emergency protocols which involved a precautionary shutdown of the left engine.

The plane then diverted and touched down safely at Benin Airport at around 10:30am local time. All 80 passengers on board “disembarked safely” and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has now launched an investigation into the incident.

The bureau said one of the aircraft’s engines had suffered “significant damage” as a result of the malfunction.

Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, said: “During the cruise phase of flight, the crew detected abnormal indications on one of the engines. In accordance with established safety procedures, the flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin.

“The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported.”

Arik Air said in a statement: “There were no injuries to passengers and crew as all 80 passengers on board were safely disembarked. Arrangements have been made to transport the affected passengers to their final destination.

“We sincerely apologise to the affected Port Harcourt passengers whose journey has been disrupted. The safety and well-being of passengers is always our priority at Arik Air.”