53 Passengers Escape Death as Max Air Crash-Lands in Kano

A Max Air aircraft carrying 53 passengers and six crew members crash-landed on Tuesday night at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), sparking panic among those on board. The aircraft, with registration number 5N-MBD, was arriving from Lagos when the incident occurred at approximately 10:19 p.m.

Eyewitnesses, including a SolaceBase correspondent on board, reported that the aircraft’s front tire burst into flames upon landing, causing thick smoke to fill the cabin. Passengers were forced to evacuate swiftly using the emergency exit as firefighters rushed to contain the blaze.

“Immediately the tire burst into flames, smoke filled the aircraft, and we had to exit through the emergency door,” one of the passengers recounted.

Airport fire service personnel were already at the scene, spraying the aircraft with water to extinguish the flames as passengers disembarked.

Speaking at the airport, Malam Bello Ramalan, the Kano Station Manager of Max Air, confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without casualties.

“I would like to apologize for the inconvenience caused and express my gratitude to God for the safety of everyone on board. Our primary concern is always the safety of our passengers and crew,” Ramalan stated.

He further explained that the airline had followed standard crash-landing procedures, including immediate passenger evacuation, isolation of the pilots, and coordination with relevant investigation authorities.

Max Air is currently working with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Aircraft and Equipment Department (AED) to determine the cause of the incident. Preliminary findings suggest a tire malfunction was responsible.

“At Max Air, safety is our top priority, and we take all necessary measures to ensure the well-being of our passengers and crew. We will continue to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities to determine the exact cause of the incident and implement corrective actions,” Ramalan assured.

The airline also pledged to assist passengers in retrieving their luggage and ensuring smooth onward travel arrangements.

The incident raises fresh concerns over aviation safety in Nigeria, as authorities continue their investigation into what could have been a major disaster.