Max Air management has provided an explanation for the emergency return of its aircraft, VM1623 (registration number 5N-BBM), which was en route to Abuja on Wednesday evening. The plane, carrying Borno State Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur and over 100 other passengers, returned to Maiduguri airport 10 minutes after takeoff, narrowly avoiding a potential disaster.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. when the aircraft struck a bird mid-air, causing one of its engines to catch fire. The pilot and crew acted swiftly to execute an emergency landing at Maiduguri, ensuring the safety of all passengers.
A Max Air staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the details of the incident. Following the emergency landing, passengers were understandably shaken, with many opting to retrieve their luggage and return home instead of continuing their journey. However, Max Air quickly arranged for another aircraft from Kano to transport passengers, including the deputy governor, to Abuja.
Among the passengers were other government dignitaries, including a commissioner, special advisers, and senior special assistants.
In response to the incident, Max Air issued a statement on Friday, explaining that the flight’s return to Maiduguri was prompted by the detection of an engine abnormality during takeoff. The airline confirmed that all passengers and crew were unharmed. The captain, upon noticing irregular engine parameters, initiated an air return in line with Standard Operating Procedures. As a precaution, the affected engine was shut down, allowing for a safe landing.
Max Air also noted that in a swift response to minimize delays, a rescue aircraft was dispatched from Kano to ensure passengers reached their destination with minimal disruption. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and comfort, emphasizing that it is working closely with aviation authorities to investigate the cause of the engine abnormality and prevent future incidents.
As a leading airline in Nigeria, Max Air remains dedicated to maintaining the highest safety and operational standards to uphold the trust and confidence of its passengers.
