Max Air explains emergency landing after bird strike on Maiduguri-Abuja flight
Max Air has clarified the circumstances surrounding the emergency landing of its Flight VM1623, with registration number 5N-BBM, which returned to Maiduguri airport 10 minutes after takeoff on Wednesday evening. The flight, en route to Abuja, carried over 100 passengers, including Borno State Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur and other government officials.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. when the aircraft struck a bird mid-air, causing one of its engines to catch fire. A Max Air staff member, speaking anonymously, stated, “The pilot acted swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers.”
Passengers were reportedly shaken by the incident, with many opting to collect their belongings and return home rather than continue their journey immediately. However, Max Air promptly dispatched a rescue aircraft from Kano to transport the passengers, including the deputy governor, safely to Abuja.
In a statement issued on Friday, the airline confirmed that all passengers and crew members were unharmed. It attributed the air return to an engine abnormality detected during takeoff, which led the captain to shut down the affected engine as a precautionary measure.
“Following Standard Operational Procedures, the aircraft made a safe landing back at Maiduguri airport,” the statement read. Max Air added that it was cooperating with aviation authorities to investigate the incident and prevent similar occurrences.
The airline assured the public of its commitment to safety and operational excellence, emphasizing its dedication to maintaining passenger trust and confidence.
