The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended Max Air’s operations following an incident involving one of its aircraft in Kano on Tuesday night.
A Max Air B734 aircraft, registered as 5N-MBD, suffered a tyre burst while landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport at approximately 10:51 PM on January 28, 2025.
This marks the third incident involving a Max Air plane in the past three months.
Although all 53 passengers on board were safely evacuated, the aircraft was grounded temporarily. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) reopened the runway by 8:00 AM on Wednesday, while the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) launched an inquiry into the occurrence.
Confirming the suspension, the NCAA stated that it would fully support the NSIB’s investigation into the incident.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu in a statement said, “It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation.”
He added, “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.
“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.”
Achimugu added that the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air within the 3-month period.
“The safety audit will entail a re-inspection of Max Air’s organisation, 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 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, the NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights.”
