By Dickson Omobola

Following the incident involving Max Air B734 aircraft with registration marks 5N-MBD, on landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, the airline will suspend domestic flight operations for three months starting from January 31.

Vanguard, however, learnt that the airliner was involved in a near-tragic incident in Maiduguri last year while transporting the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Umar Usman Kadafur, and other government officials.

A source familiar with the development said: “During that flight, the aircraft suffered other technical issues forcing an emergency landing at the Maiduguri International Airport.

“We therefore call on  the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, to launch an urgent investigation into the safety standards of Max Air and its fleet.”

Meanwhile, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, NCAA, Mr Michael Achimugu, in a statement, said during the three-month period, the NCAA would conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on the airline.

Achimugu stated that the safety audit would entail a re-inspection of Max Air’s organisation, procedures, personnel and aircraft.

The publicist said the airline’s resumption of flight operations would be dependent on the satisfactory completion of this audit.

The statement reads: “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.

“During this 3-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 organisation, 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.”