Burst aircraft tyre: FG suspends Max Air, examines other airlines

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, has announced the suspension of operations by Max Air following Tuesday night’s incident involving the airline’s aircraft in Kano.

It also announced on Wednesday that it had commenced organisational risk profiles for each scheduled airline, including Max Air, adding that the exercise was nearing conclusion.

The PUNCH reports that a Max Air B734 aircraft with registration mark 5N-MBD suffered a tyre burst on landing at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on Tuesday night.

This would be the third incident in three months involving Max Air airplanes.

The 53 passengers in the aircraft disembarked unhurt and the aircraft was removed from the runway of the airport by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.

Although the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has commenced an investigation into the cause of the incident, the NCAA ordered that the airline be suspended for three months.

The NCAA in a statement said it will provide the required support to the NSIB in unraveling the cause of the incident.

The statement which was signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, stated that, “It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation.

“It is instructive to note that the NCAA had commenced organisational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion. However, as a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months with effect from midnight, January 31, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.”

Achimugu stated that during the 90-day 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 organisation, procedures, personne, 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 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, the NCAA appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights.”

Reacting to the development through a statement posted on its X handle, the management of the airline acknowledged the temporary suspension of operations, adding that the break would allow the company to carry out internal operational evaluation.

The airline also said regular updates will be provided through its website and verified social media channels.

The statement read partly, “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority and we believe this voluntary suspension will allow us to exceed industry standards and restore public confidence in our operations.

“All affected booked passengers during the suspension period are enjoined to receive full refunds or rebooking options with partner airlines. Our customer service team will be available to assist all the affected passengers. We are actively working with the aviation authorities during this period to ensure that every statutory requirement is met.

“In view of the foregoing, therefore, we deeply regret the temporary inconvenience this will cause our valued domestic customers. However, we believe this investment in safety and reliability will significantly enhance our service quality delivery for years to come.”