A Max Air flight carrying Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers on the evening of December 4, 2024 narrowly avoided disaster when one of its engines caught fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m., just ten minutes into the flight en route to Abuja. According to security expert Zagazola Makama, the engine fire was triggered by a bird strike.
In response to the emergency, the pilot and crew executed a swift emergency landing back at Maiduguri Airport, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members on board.
Despite the successful landing, the event caused panic among passengers, many of whom opted to retrieve their luggage and abandon the journey rather than continue flying.
Max Air management quickly arranged for a replacement aircraft from Kano to transport the willing passengers, including Deputy Governor Kadafur, to Abuja later that night.
The airline's prompt response in managing the crisis was commendable, although they have yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the incident. The damaged aircraft is currently undergoing repairs at the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri.
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