The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says Max Air has suspended domestic flight operations for three months with effect from midnight, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.
This development follows an incident involving a Max Air plane at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport late Tuesday night.
The Max Air aircraft with registration number: 5N-MBD, carrying 53 passengers, suffered a tyre burst upon landing at the Kano airport, although all 53 passengers and crew were disembarked unhurt.
Michael Achimugu, Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, NCAA stated that statutorily, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated investigation into the occurrence.
Achimugu said 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.
The incident occurred at about 10:57 p.m. after the aircraft arriving from Lagos lost its nose landing gear tyre during the landing process.
In a statement posted by the airline on its X handle, it said its crew members handled the situation professionally to ensure the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew members.
It said, “We wish to inform the public that one of our aircraft experienced an incident upon landing in Kano yesterday.”
The airline added that the Kano runway is temporarily closed for inspection and clearance, which may lead to some delays in flight operations on Wednesday.
“There were no injuries, and the aircraft has since been removed from the runway as of 04:28,” the statement said.
“Our Max Air engineering team continues to demonstrate excellence in handling such situations. We will keep you informed on the status of flight schedules,” the statement said.
The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit, Achimugu added.
His memo 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 organisational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion.
“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.”
