Max Air’s Aircraft Returns to Maiduguri Airport Explained

The management of Max Air has stated why their aircraft, VM1623 with registration number 5N-BBM en route Abuja, returned to Maiduguri airport 10 minutes after departure.

Umar Kadafur, the Borno State Deputy Governor, and nearly 100 other passengers narrowly averted a catastrophic occurrence that occurred around 7 p.m. Wednesday.

The pilot and crew successfully executed an emergency landing back at Maiduguri airport, averting calamity.

A Max Air employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, verified the occurrence on Thursday morning.

The crew member stated, “Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft collided with a bird in midair, causing one of the engines to catch fire.” The pilot moved quickly to secure the safety of all passengers.”

Following the emergency landing, passengers were reportedly in a state of panic, with many opting to collect their luggage and return home rather than board another flight.

However, Max Air management promptly arranged another aircraft from Kano to transport passengers, including the deputy governor, safely to Abuja.

Apart from the deputy governor, there were other government dignitaries on the flight including a commissioner, special advisers, and senior special assistants, among other aides.

Responding to the incident in a statement, the airline operator on Friday, said the air return of its Flight to Maiduguri International Airport was initiated after an engine abnormality was detected during takeoff.

It confirmed that all passengers and crew members aboard were unharmed.

The airline said the captain initiated an air return immediately after observing irregular engine parameters.

The statement reads: “Following Standard Operational Procedures, the affected engine was shut down as a precaution, allowing the aircraft to land safely at the airport.”

“MaxAir despatched a rescue aircraft to Maiduguri in a timely reaction to prevent disruptions, ensuring that passengers arrived at their destinations with minimal delay.

“MaxAir is dedicated to the safety and comfort of its passengers. We are collaborating closely with aviation authorities to identify the source of the engine anomaly and prevent similar incidents in the future.

As Nigeria’s largest airline, we remain committed to maintaining the highest safety and operational standards, earning the faith and confidence of our loyal passengers.”