Panic and confusion grip passengers aboard Max Aircraft as it crash-lands at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in the late hours of Tuesday 28th January 2025, carrying 53 passengers and six crew members.
The aircraft, with registration number 5N-MBD, B733 in transit from Lagos when the terrific incident occurred around 10:45pm. According to eyewitness, the plane tyres suddenly burst into flames upon landing, triggering a wave of fear among those onboard.
Aliyu Inuwa Mansir, one of the passengers, described the harrowing moments inside the cabin.
“Immediately the tyre burst into flames, smoke filled the cabin, and we had to evacuate through the emergency exit. Thankfully, firefighters were already at the Kano Airport scene spraying water to contain the flames” he said.
Confirming the incident, Max Air’s station manager, Malam Bello Ramadan, reassured the public that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated.
“We understand the distress this has caused, and we deeply appreciate the patience and cooperation of our passengers. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our utmost priority,” he stated.
Malam Bello Ramadan, explains that investigations suggest that the incident resulted from a tyre malfunction. While the airline followed emergency protocols, ensuring swift evacuation and coordination with aviation authorities, they would be working with relevant agencies to determine the exact cause and take corrective measures.
Furthermore, the incident has reignited discussions on aviation safety in Nigeria, calling for stricter aircraft maintenance checks to prevent future occurrences. Hence, the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has launched a formal investigation into the matter.
While no lives were lost, the event serves as a grim reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols in Nigeria’s aviation sector.