Borno State Deputy Governor Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur and over 100 passengers had a close brush with tragedy on Wednesday evening when a Max Air aircraft suffered an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The Incident
The incident occurred at approximately 7 p.m. as the aircraft, bound for Abuja, encountered a bird strike just 10 minutes into the flight. The bird strike caused one of the plane’s engines to catch fire, prompting the pilot and crew to execute an emergency landing.
Passengers onboard described moments of fear and chaos as the situation unfolded mid-air. “We noticed some strange sounds and could see sparks from the engine before the pilot announced the emergency,” one passenger recounted.
Despite the severity of the situation, the pilot successfully navigated the plane back to Maiduguri International Airport, preventing what could have been a catastrophic accident.
Max Air’s Response
A Max Air staff member, speaking under anonymity, confirmed the details of the bird strike and praised the crew’s swift actions. “The crew’s professionalism and prompt decision-making ensured all passengers landed safely,” the staffer stated.
Following the emergency landing, many passengers, shaken by the ordeal, opted to collect their belongings and cancel their trips. However, Max Air quickly dispatched a replacement aircraft from Kano to ferry those willing to continue their journey, including Deputy Governor Kadafur, to Abuja.
Aircraft Grounded and Investigations Ongoing
The affected aircraft has been grounded at Maiduguri International Airport for repairs and safety assessments. Aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, focusing on the bird strike and the engine’s response.
Authorities Reassure Public
Maiduguri International Airport officials have reassured travelers of their commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards. They commended the Max Air crew for their professionalism in averting disaster and pledged to implement additional measures to prevent similar occurrences.
Passenger Reactions
While many passengers expressed relief and gratitude for their safety, the incident has sparked conversations about bird control measures around airports, particularly in high-risk areas.
This narrow escape has highlighted the importance of rigorous safety protocols and the critical role of experienced aviation professionals in managing emergencies.
