A Max Air flight carrying 53 passengers from Lagos state bursts into flames on Tuesday night.
The plane with registration number 5N-MBD, B733, narrowly escaped disaster on Tuesday night at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) following a burst front tire.
According to reports, the aircraft, which was arriving from Lagos, carried 53 passengers and six crew members when the incident occurred at around 10:19 p.m.
One of the passengers, Aliyu Inuwa Mansir revealed “The front tire burst into flames upon landing, filling the cabin with smoke. We had to evacuate quickly through the emergency exit. Firefighters were already dousing the flames as we got out,” Mansir recounted.
Malam Bello Ramalan, Max Air’s Kano Station Manager, confirmed that everyone onboard was safely evacuated.
He explained that the airline is collaborating with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Aircraft and Equipment Department (AED) to determine the cause of the incident.
In his words: “I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and thank God for the safety of everyone on board. The well-being of our passengers and crew is always our top priority.”
He explained that the airline followed standard safety procedures for crash-landings and runway overshoots, which included: immediate evacuation of passengers, isolation of the pilots and collaboration with aviation safety authorities
Ramadan further disclosed that the airline is working closely with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Aircraft and Equipment Department (AED) to determine the cause of the incident.
“Preliminary findings suggest a tire malfunction as the cause of the accident. However, we will fully cooperate with relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and implement necessary safety measures.”
He assured affected passengers that efforts are underway to return their luggage promptly.
“We understand the distress this has caused, and we deeply appreciate the patience and cooperation of our passengers. Safety remains our highest priority at Max Air.”
Authorities have confirmed that no injuries or casualties were recorded. The incident, however, has raised concerns about aviation safety standards in Nigeria, prompting renewed calls for strict aircraft maintenance and regulatory oversight.
The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has since launched an official probe into the matter.
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