Nosa Osula-Aituamen
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended Max Air’s domestic flight operations for three months, effective midnight, January 31, 2025.
This suspension follows an incident involving a Max Air Boeing 734 (registration 5N-MBD) that occurred upon landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at approximately 10:51 PM.
In a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Mr Michael Achimugu said, while the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched a statutory investigation into the incident, the NCAA is taking proactive steps to ensure passenger safety.
According to him, the three-month suspension will allow Max Air to conduct an internal review of its operations.
During this period, he stated that, the NCAA will perform a comprehensive safety and economic audit of the airline.
Listing the safety audit to involve a re-inspection of Max Air’s organization, procedures, personnel, and aircraft, in accordance with Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.
While the economic audit will assess the airline’s financial stability to ensure its capacity to maintain safe operations.
He disclosed that, the resumption of Max Air’s domestic flights is contingent upon the successful completion of both audits.
The NCAA acknowledges the potential inconvenience this suspension may cause passengers and appeals for their understanding.
The regulatory body emphasizes that passenger safety and well-being remain its top priority.