NCAA Suspends Max Air Operations Following Kano Incident

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The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the suspension of operations by Max Air following an incident involving the airline’s aircraft in Kano on Tuesday night.

A Max Air Boeing 737 aircraft, with the registration 5N-MBD, experienced a tyre burst upon landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, on Tuesday, 28th January 2025, at approximately 22:51 hours.

This marks the third incident in three months involving a Max Air aircraft.

Although all 53 passengers aboard were evacuated without injury, the aircraft was temporarily closed off, and the runway was reopened by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) at 08:00 hours on Wednesday.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the incident.

In a statement confirming the occurrence, the NCAA assured it would provide the necessary support to the NSIB.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, stated, “It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation.”

He further explained, “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 three months, effective from midnight on 31st January 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.”

Achimugu went on to say that during this three-month period, the NCAA would conduct a thorough safety and economic audit of Max Air.

“The safety audit will involve a re-inspection of Max Air’s organisation, procedures, personnel, and aircraft as outlined in Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, while the economic audit will critically assess the financial health of the airline to ensure its capacity to maintain safe flight operations.”

“The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be contingent upon the satisfactory completion of this audit.”

“The NCAA is aware of the inconvenience this action may cause to intending passengers of Max Air. However, the safety and well-being of passengers are paramount. Therefore, the NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights.”