The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that Max Air will suspend its domestic flight operations for three months following an incident involving one of its aircraft at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on January 28, 2025.
According to a statement signed by NCAA Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Mr. Michael Achimugu, the suspension will take effect from midnight on January 31, 2025.
“This decision will allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management,” the statement read.
The incident involved a Max Air Boeing 737-400 aircraft, with registration 5N-MBD, which landed at the Kano airport at approximately 10:51 p.m.
While details of the incident remain unclear, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation to determine its cause.
“The specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation,” the NCAA stated, adding that it will provide the necessary support to the inquiry.
As part of its response, the NCAA will also conduct a comprehensive safety and economic audit of Max Air during the suspension period.
“The safety audit will entail a re-inspection of Max Air’s organization, procedures, personnel, and aircraft as specified by Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations,” Achimugu stated.
Additionally, the economic audit will assess the airline’s financial health to ensure it can sustain safe flight operations.
Max Air’s return to service will be contingent on the successful completion of this audit. “The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit,” the NCAA emphasized.
The aviation authority acknowledged the inconvenience this decision may cause passengers but stressed that safety remains the top priority.
“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,” the statement read. The NCAA urged the public to exercise patience and understanding while it works to ensure passenger safety and rights are upheld.
Max Air has not yet issued a separate statement regarding the suspension.
