FG Suspends Max Air Operations
The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has announced the suspension of Max Air’s operations following an incident involving one of the airline’s aircraft at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
A Max Air B734 aircraft with registration marks 5N-MBD experienced a tyre burst while landing at the airport on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at approximately 10:51 PM.
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 temporarily grounded before the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) reopened the runway at 8:00 AM on Wednesday.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the incident, with the NCAA pledging full support.
Confirming the development, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, 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 noted that the NCAA had already begun organizational risk assessments for all scheduled operators, including Max Air, which was nearing completion.
“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.
During this three-month suspension, the NCAA will conduct a comprehensive safety and economic audit of the airline.
“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,” Achimugu stated.
He emphasized that the resumption of Max Air’s domestic operations will depend on the satisfactory completion of the audit.
While acknowledging the potential inconvenience for passengers, Achimugu assured that passenger safety and well-being remain the NCAA’s top priority.
“The NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights,” he concluded.
