NCAA Suspends Max Air Domestic Operations For Three Months After Incident in Kano

Abuja, Nigeria– The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the suspension of Max Air’s domestic flight operations for a period of three months, effective from midnight on January 31.

This directive follows an incident involving the airline’s Boeing 737-400 aircraft, registered 5N-MBD, which occurred at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, on Tuesday.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, explained that the suspension aims to facilitate a comprehensive internal review of the airline’s operations.

The review will include both a safety and an economic audit of Max Air.

“The safety audit will involve a re-inspection of Max Air’s organization, operational procedures, personnel, and aircraft, in compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations,” said Achimugu.

“Meanwhile, the economic audit will assess the airline’s financial stability to ensure its capacity to maintain safe flight operations.”

The incident in question occurred as the Max Air flight, en route from Lagos to Kano, was landing at Kano’s runway 06.

During the deceleration phase, a loud bang was heard, followed by the aircraft veering sharply to the left.

The flight crew quickly regained control, bringing the aircraft to a safe stop. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the 53 passengers and six crew members aboard.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has already launched an investigation into the incident.

Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, confirmed that all passengers and crew disembarked safely, and the investigation will determine the specific cause(s) of the incident.

The NCAA has pledged full support to the NSIB investigation as it continues its inquiry into the matter. The findings of the audit and investigation will determine the next steps for Max Air’s operations.