[BREAKING] NCAA suspends Max Air after Tuesday incident
By Joseph Olaoluwa
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) suspended the domestic flight operations of Max Air for three months after one of the plane’s aircraft crashed and landed at the Malam Aminu International Airport (MAKIA), Kano airport on Tuesday night.
The aircraft had 53 passengers and six crew members who were unhurt. The Kano airport was closed after the incident until this morning. Similarly, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated an investigation into the occurrence.
“As a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for three months with effect from midnight, 31st January 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management,” said a statement signed by NCAA Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Mr. Michael Achimugu.
“During these 3 months, the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air. The safety audit will entail re-inspecting Max Air’s organization, procedures, personnel and aircraft as specified by Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations. In contrast, the economic audit will critically examine the financial health of the airline to guarantee its capability to sustain safe flight operations,” it added.
Achimugu said that Max Air’s return to the skies will be premised on the successful completion of this audit. While the NCAA acknowledged the inconvenience this action may cause intending passengers of Max Air, it said that the safety of passengers is paramount.
