Travel

Max Air Suspends Domestic Flights for Three Months After Latest Safety Scare

Published

on

Max Air has suspended its domestic flight operations for three months following a tyre burst incident involving one of its aircraft at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on Tuesday night.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) have launched separate investigations into the airline’s operations.

The affected aircraft with registration number 5N-MBD suffered a tyre burst while landing at approximately 10:51 p.m.

All 53 passengers onboard were safely evacuated before the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria reopened the runway around 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

Tuesday’s incident marks the third safety-related occurrence involving Max Air in the past three months, prompting regulatory authorities to intervene. Confirming the suspension, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, stated that the regulatory body would collaborate with NSIB on the investigation while conducting its own internal review.

“It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation,” Achimugu said.

According to the NCAA, an organisational risk assessment was already in progress for all scheduled airlines prior to the latest development.

However, following the incident, the airline is set to halt its domestic flight operations for three months, starting from January 31, 2025 for an internal safety review.

“However, as a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for three months, effective from midnight on 31 January 2025, to allow for an internal review of its operations,” Achimugu stated.

During the suspension period, the NCAA will conduct a comprehensive safety and economic audit of Max Air. The safety audit will re-examine the airline’s organisational structure, operational procedures, personnel qualifications, and aircraft condition, ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.

“The safety audit will involve a re-inspection of Max Air’s organisation, procedures, personnel, and aircraft, as specified by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations,” Achimugu explained.

Also, the economic audit will assess the airline’s financial capacity to sustain safe operations.

“The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flights will depend on the satisfactory completion of this audit,” he added.

While acknowledging the potential inconvenience to passengers, the NCAA reiterated its commitment to prioritising safety in the country’s aviation sector.

“The NCAA is aware of the inconvenience this action may cause Max Air’s intending passengers. However, the safety and well-being of passengers is paramount. We appeal for patience and understanding while we ensure the protection of passenger rights,” the statement added.

Exit mobile version