The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is investigating the recent Max Air incident at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) to determine its root cause.
In a statement, FAAN’s director of public affairs and consumer protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah recalled that on January 28, 2025, at 10:50 PM local time, a Max Air Boeing 737-400, with registration 5N-MBD, experienced a nose wheel landing gear collapse and a rear tyre burst while landing on Runway 06/24 at MAKIA.
The aircraft, arriving from Lagos, had 53 passengers and six crew members onboard. Fortunately, there were no injuries.
“Emergency services responded promptly, and the incident was managed according to the airport’s emergency response plan. The aircraft has been towed to Bay 5 for further investigation, which is currently being conducted by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to determine the root cause,” the statement read.
FAAN added that normal flight operations resumed at 8:00 AM after the runway was cleared and reopened.
Meanwhile, the NSIB has officially launched an investigation into the incident. According to its statement, the aircraft landed on Runway 06 and, during deceleration under 60 knots with the thrust reversers engaged, a loud bang was heard. The aircraft then veered sharply to the left before the flight crew regained control and safely brought it to a stop.
All passengers and crew disembarked safely. No injuries were reported.
Following the incident, the NSIB deployed its Go-Team to the site. The investigation will examine technical, operational, and procedural factors that may have contributed to the occurrence.
In a statement, NSIB’s director of public affairs and family assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji reiterated the agency’s commitment to maintaining the highest aviation safety standards and providing recommendations to prevent future incidents. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
