By Joy Yesufu
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended Max Air’s domestic flight operations for three months following a tyre burst incident involving one of its aircraft in Kano.
The affected Boeing 737-400, with registration number 5N-MBD, suffered a tyre burst while landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport at 10:51 p.m. on January 28, 2025.
While all 53 passengers were safely evacuated, the aircraft was temporarily grounded before the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) reopened the runway at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday.
This incident marks the third major safety concern involving Max Air in three months, prompting the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to launch an investigation.
Confirming the suspension, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, said in a statement that the regulatory body would conduct its own assessment while supporting NSIB’s probe.
“The specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after NSIB has conducted its investigation,” Achimugu stated.
As a result of the incident, Max Air will halt its domestic flight operations for three months, effective midnight on January 31, 2025.
During this period, the NCAA will conduct a comprehensive safety and economic audit of the airline, reviewing operational procedures, aircraft maintenance records, personnel competence and financial stability to sustain safe operations
“The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flights will depend on the satisfactory completion of this audit,” Achimugu added.
While acknowledging the potential inconvenience to passengers, the NCAA reaffirmed that safety remains its top priority.
“We appeal for patience and understanding while we ensure the protection of passenger rights and safety,” the statement concluded.
