Following the near fatal accident of Max Air aircraft at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on Tuesday, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced comprehensive safety and economic audit of the airline.
Recall Max Air B734 aircraft with registration marks 5N-MBD, on landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on Tuesday, 28th, January 2025 at about 2251 hours experienced a nose wheel landing gear collapse and a rear tire burst while landing on Tuesday, 28th, January 2025 at about 2251 hours.
A statement by Mr. Michael Achimugu, the Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, NCAA indicated that as a result of this incident, “Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months with effect from midnight, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.”
In addition, during the 3-month period, “the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air. The safety audit will entail a re-inspection of Max Air’s organization, procedures, personnel and aircraft as specified by Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, while the economic audit will critically examine the financial health of the airline to guarantee its capability to sustain safe flight operations” the statement explained.
It’s worthy to note that the NCAA previously commenced organizational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion.
According to NCAA, the “resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit.”
“The NCAA is aware of the inconvenience this action may cause intending passengers of Max Air. However; the safety and well-being of passengers is paramount. Thus, NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights” the statement noted.
The NCAA confirmed that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated investigation into the occurrence and the NCAA will provide the required support to the NSIB in this regard the statement indicated.
