Max Air suspends operations as NCAA begins audit

 

Max Air suspends operations as NCAA begins audit 

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Wednesday said Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months effective  midnight, January 31,  2025.

The decision is to  allow the carrier commence  an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.

The airline on Tuesday, suffered a nose-wheel collapse on landing at Kano airport.

A statement by NCAA's spokesperson, Mr Michael Achimugu,  said the regulatory body  will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air during the period of its suspension.

He added that the resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit.

Achimugu also revealed that the NCAA had commenced organizational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion.

“Statutorily, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated investigation into the occurrence. The NCAA will provide the required support to the NSIB in this regard. 

"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 organizational 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, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.

“During this  three -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 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. “, Achimugu said.

Meanwhile,  the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said it has launched an investigation into the incident involving a Boeing 737-400 aircraft with registration 5N-MBD, operated by Max Air.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:48 PM local time on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at  Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.

The aircraft, flying from Lagos to Kano with 53 passengers and six crew members onboard, landed on runway 06. 

During the deceleration phase, while still under 60 knots and with the thrust reversers engaged, a loud bang was heard, followed by the aircraft veering sharply to left.

It added that the flight crew promptly regained control and safely brought the aircraft to a stop.

A statement by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance for the Bureau said all 53 passengers and crew members safely disembarked, and no injuries were reported.

“The NSIB has deployed its GoTeam to the site of the incident. The team’s investigation will focus on identifying the root cause, including any technical, operational, or procedural lapses.The NSIB remains committed to upholding the highest aviation safety standards and providing recommendations to prevent future occurrences. As the investigation progresses, further updates will be provided.”, the statement reads.