ABOUT 53 PASSENGERS who boarded Max Aircraft from Lagos To Kano State, escaped death after the plane crashed and landed on Tuesday night at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
The plane, a Max Air aircraft with registration number 5N-MBD, B733 crash-landed on Tuesday night at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
The journalist and other passengers were said to be returning from Lagos when the incident occurred at approximately 10:45 PM.
One of the passengers, Aliyu Inuwa Mansir, a correspondent with SolaceBase, reported that the mishap happened after the aircraft’s front tyre burst into flames upon landing.
“Immediately after the tire burst into flames, smoke filled the cabin, and we had to evacuate through the emergency exit,” Mansir recounted. “As we exited the aircraft, firefighters were already on the scene, spraying water to contain the flames.”
Speaking on the incident, Malam Bello Ramadan, the Station Manager of Max Air, confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated.
“I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and thank God for the safety of everyone on board. The well-being of our passengers and crew is always our top priority.”
He explained that the airline followed standard safety procedures for crash landings and runway overshoots, which included: immediate evacuation of passengers, isolation of the pilots and collaboration with aviation safety authorities
Ramadan further disclosed that the airline is working closely with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Aircraft and Equipment Department (AED) to determine the cause of the incident.
“Preliminary findings suggest a tire malfunction as the cause of the accident. However, we will fully cooperate with relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and implement necessary safety measures.”
He assured affected passengers that efforts are underway to return their luggage promptly.
“We understand the distress this has caused, and we deeply appreciate the patience and cooperation of our passengers. Safety remains our highest priority at Max Air.”
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Authorities have confirmed that no injuries or casualties were recorded. The incident, however, has raised concerns about aviation safety standards in Nigeria, prompting renewed calls for strict aircraft maintenance and regulatory oversight.
The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has since launched an official probe into the matter
Maiduguri: Max Air On Fire As Engine Caught Fire
On December 5, 2024, Max Air similarly engulfed in fire after takeoff from Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri.
It was reported that the aircraft was en route to Abuja with nearly 80 passengers on board including the Deputy governor of Borno State, Usman Kadafur to make an emergency return to Maiduguri airport.
No fatalities were reported.
Similarly, in July last year, the NCAA suspended Max Air Boeing 737 ( parts A3 and D43) aircraft from operation over safety concerns.
