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NCAA

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria 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 B734 aircraft, registered as 5N-MBD, suffered a tyre burst upon landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on 28th January 2025 at approximately 22:51.

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

Although all 53 passengers were safely evacuated, the aircraft was temporarily halted before the runway was reopened by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) at 08:00 on Wednesday.

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

In a statement confirming the incident, the NCAA indicated its commitment to providing the necessary support to the NSIB.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasised, “It is important to note that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be determined once the NSIB has completed its investigation.”

He further stated, “The NCAA has begun organisational risk assessments for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing completion.

“As a consequence of this incident, Max Air will suspend its domestic flight operations for three months, effective midnight on 31st January 2025, to allow its management time for an internal review of its operations.”

Achimugu explained that during this three-month period, the NCAA will conduct an extensive safety and economic audit of Max Air.

“The safety audit will involve a re-evaluation of Max Air’s organisation, procedures, personnel, and aircraft, as outlined in Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations. The economic audit will scrutinise the airline’s financial stability to ensure its ability to maintain safe flight operations.

“Max Air’s resumption of domestic flight services will depend upon the satisfactory completion of this audit.

“The NCAA acknowledges the inconvenience this decision may cause to intending Max Air passengers. However, the safety and well-being of passengers are of utmost priority. Therefore, the NCAA kindly requests patience and understanding as it works to protect passenger rights.”

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