The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says it would be conducting a safety and economic audit on Max Air to ascertain its health position.
This is as the NCAA refers to the incident involving Max Air B734 aircraft with registration marks 5N-MBD, on landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on Tuesday, 28th, January 2025 at about 22:51 hours.
Statutorily, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated investigation into the occurrence. The NCAA will provide the required support to the NSIB in this regard. It must be stated that the specific cause(s) of this incident can only be established after the NSIB has conducted its investigation.
According to a statement signed by Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, the regulatory agency, had commenced organizational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion.
“However as a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months with effect from midnight, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.
“During this 3-month period, the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air. 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, while the economic audit will critically examine the financial health of the airline to guarantee its capability to sustain safe flight operations.”
The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations, according to the NCAA, would be predicated on the satisfactory completion of the audit.
The statement, however, notes that 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 and appeals for patience and understanding while it ensures the protection of passenger rights.