Arik Air Apprehends Stowaway Teenager In Aircraft Wheel From Benin To Lagos

Personnel of Arik Air yesterday apprehended and handed over a stoaway teenager  to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Aviation Security (AVSEC). The lad was on an Arik Air flight from Benin Airport to Lagos.

The pilot of Arik Air flight W3 544, departing Benin Airport for Lagos at 9am yesterday reported to the control tower the presence of a strange boy in the bush about 200 - 300 meters  at the end of runway 23.

The control tower told the Captain that they were sending security men to the place to arrest the boy.

As the captain was making his final turn, preparatory for take-off, a cabin crew called his attention to the information by some of the passengers that they saw a boy running towards the airplane.  The First Officer confirmed that they had observed it earlier and alerted the control tower which responded that they have sent the patrol team to arrest the boy.

The Captain again reported to the control tower and was informed that the situation was under control and that he had been cleared for take-off.

On arrival at the domestic wing of MMA, Lagos, a teenage boy, who apparently had sneaked into the aircraft main wheel, jumped out and was arrested by Arik personnel and handed over to FAAN security.

The management of Arik Air has expressed shock over the incident wondering how the teenager beat the Aviation Security personnel at the Benin Airport to get to the runway.

Arik Air's Managing Director, Mr Chris Ndulue commented:

'We are worried by the incessant security lapses at our airports.  We are appealing to the management of FAAN to immediately address the problem.'