Max Air incident, airline suspend operations for 3 months as authorities commence investigations
Agency Report
Beleaguered Nigerian domestic carrier, Max Air will suspend its flight operations following the latest serious incident involving it aircraft, a Boeing 734 with registration marks 5N-MBD that experienced a nose wheel landing gear collapse and a rear tire burst while landing on Runway 06/24 at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) on Tuesday night.
The aircraft had 53 passengers and 6 crew members but authorities confirmed there were no injuries to the passengers or the crew members on board.
Within the last two years, Max Air have had multiple incidents in Abuja, Yola, Maiduguri and other other northern state airports where it predominantly operates into.
Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr. Michael Achimugu confirmed
that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated investigation into the occurrence.
He said “the NCAA will provide the required support to the NSIB in this regard. It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation.
It is instructive to note that the NCAA had commenced organizational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion.”
The NCAA image maker added that “However, as a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months with effect from midnight, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.
During this 3-month period, the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air. The safety audit will entail a re-inspection of Max Air’s organization, procedures, personnel and aircraft as specified by Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, while the economic audit will critically examine the financial health of the airline to guarantee its capability to sustain safe flight operations.”
According to him, “The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit.
The NCAA is aware of the inconvenience this action may cause intending passengers of Max Air. However; the safety and well-being of passengers is paramount. Thus, NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights.”
Also giving an update Wednesday the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said it has launched an investigation into the
incident involving a Boeing 737-400 aircraft with registration 5N-MBD, operated by Max Air.
“The incident occurred at approximately 10:48 PM local time on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at
Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.”
“The aircraft, flying from Lagos to Kano with 53 passengers and six crew members onboard,
landed on runway 06. During the deceleration phase, while still under 60 knots and with the
thrust reversers engaged, a loud bang was heard, followed by the aircraft veering sharply to the
left. The flight crew promptly regained control and safely brought the aircraft to a stop.
All 53 passengers and crew members safely disembarked, and no injuries were reported. The
NSIB has deployed its GoTeam to the site of the incident. The team’s investigation will focus
on identifying the root cause, including any technical, operational, or procedural lapses.”
The NSIB remains committed to upholding the highest aviation safety standards and providing
recommendations to prevent future occurrences. As the investigation progresses, further
updates will be provided.” Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the agency Director for Public Affairs and Family Assistance disclosed in an electronic statement.
