Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers narrowly escaped disaster when a Max Air aircraft experienced an engine fire shortly after leaving Maiduguri International Airport.
The incident occurred on Wednesday around 7 p.m. as the plane, en route to Abuja, encountered engine failure due to a bird strike approximately 10 minutes into the flight. The crew promptly executed an emergency landing back at Maiduguri Airport, ensuring the safety of everyone on board.
A Max Air employee, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the bird strike had ignited one of the engines, necessitating the emergency response. “The pilot acted decisively to ensure the safety of all passengers,” the staff member stated.
Although the emergency landing was successful, many passengers were understandably shaken, with some opting to retrieve their belongings and abandon the trip. Nevertheless, Max Air arranged for a replacement aircraft from Kano, allowing passengers, including the Deputy Governor, to continue their journey to Abuja later that evening.
The damaged aircraft remains grounded at Maiduguri International Airport, where extensive repairs are underway. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Airport authorities have praised the crew’s professionalism and reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining high safety standards.
