An aircraft belonging to Max Air crash-landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on Sunday, May 7, 2023, after its tyre reportedly burst into flames.
According to reports, the tyre of the aircraft pulled out after takeoff at Yola Airport, Adamawa State.
The incident was confirmed by a former President of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Mike Ogirima, who was a passenger on the flight.
“We thank God. We are still on the runway and the pilot has reassured us. He has called for the stairs and we are now disembarking from the runway to be evacuated to the airport building at the arrival hall. We bless God because we have witnessed the pull out of the tyre right from the airport in Yola and we went into a prayer session,” Ogirima said.
The aircraft crash-landed in Abuja with emergency officials already on the ground to put out the fire before the passengers disembarked at the runway while the runway had been temporarily shut until the evacuation of the aircraft. The Aerodrome Rescue and Fire-fighting Service (ARFFS) at the airport was swiftly mobilised to put out the fire.
In a statement released by the management of Max Air Sunday evening, the airline said the affected aircraft had 143 passengers and an infant onboard.
“…the aircraft experienced two tire bursts on landing in Abuja, and the emergency response team quickly responded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport,” the statement noted.
“We are pleased to report that all passengers and crew on board the aircraft are safe and sound,” the statement added.
According to the statement, the airline has taken all necessary steps to ensure that the passengers are comfortable and are being taken care of during this time and that they have been conveyed to the arrival terminal with their luggage and belongings. Max Air added that it would continue to provide updates on the situation.
“The airline would like to extend its appreciation to the airport authorities, emergency services, and all relevant agencies who responded promptly and professionally to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew on board,” the airline said.
The airline also stated that it would officially inform the appropriate authorities to carry out an investigation into the incident.
