Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur, and over 100 passengers narrowly avoided disaster on Wednesday evening after a Max Air aircraft suffered an engine failure caused by a bird strike shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The incident happened at around 7:00 p.m. as the aircraft, bound for Abuja, experienced a mid-air emergency approximately 10 minutes into the flight. The pilot skillfully executed an emergency landing, ensuring all passengers disembarked safely at the Maiduguri airport.
A Max Air staff member, speaking under anonymity, confirmed the cause of the incident. “Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft struck a bird, which led to one of the engines catching fire. The crew acted swiftly, ensuring the passengers’ safety,” the source said.
Panic ensued among passengers, many of whom opted to retrieve their belongings and return home rather than proceed with their journey. Max Air management, however, responded quickly, dispatching a replacement aircraft from Kano to transport the stranded passengers, including the deputy governor, to Abuja.
Apart from Deputy Governor Kadafur, the flight carried several government dignitaries, including a commissioner, special advisers, and senior special assistants.
The damaged aircraft was grounded at Maiduguri International Airport, where it is undergoing extensive repairs. Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the full extent of the incident and prevent future occurrences.
Airport officials praised the professionalism of the crew in averting what could have been a major tragedy. They also assured passengers of their ongoing commitment to ensuring safety standards.
