Borno Deputy Governor, Passengers Escape Engine Fire on Max Air Flight
Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers narrowly escaped a potentially tragic incident when a Max Air aircraft experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The aircraft, en route to Abuja, encountered engine failure due to a bird strike just 10 minutes into the flight. The crew, led by the pilot, acted swiftly and managed to make an emergency return to Maiduguri, preventing any fatalities or serious injuries.
The bird strike caused one of the aircraft’s engines to catch fire, sending the passengers into a state of panic. However, the pilot’s quick thinking and expert handling of the situation ensured the aircraft was safely brought back to the airport. Despite the harrowing experience, many passengers chose to collect their luggage and return home instead of boarding another flight.
In response to the emergency, Max Air immediately arranged for another plane to transport the passengers, including the Deputy Governor, to Abuja. A plane from Kano was dispatched to ensure the safety of the passengers, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to resolving the situation quickly and efficiently.
The aircraft involved in the incident remains grounded at Maiduguri International Airport for repairs while investigations into the cause of the engine fire are ongoing. Airport authorities have reassured the public that safety measures are being reviewed, and they commended the professionalism of the flight crew in handling the emergency.