The Deputy Governor of Borno state, Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers, narrowly escaped a tragic incident when a Max Air aircraft experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
According to Vanguard, the incident occurred around 7pm on Wednesday, December 4, when the aircraft, en route to Abuja, suffered engine failure caused by a bird strike about 10 minutes into the flight.
The pilot and crew managed to execute an emergency landing back at Maiduguri Airport, averting disaster.
Following the emergency landing, passengers were reportedly in a state of panic, with many opting to collect their luggage and return home rather than board another flight.
However, Max Air management promptly arranged for another aircraft from Kano to transport resilient passengers, including the Deputy Governor, safely to Abuja.
The ill-fated aircraft remains grounded at Maiduguri International Airport, undergoing extensive repairs.
Investigations into the incident are currently underway.
The airport authorities have reassured passengers of their commitment to safety and thanked the crew for their professionalism in managing the situation.
