Max Air Plane Carrying Borno Deputy Governor and Passengers Experiences Engine Fire After Takeoff

In a harrowing incident, a Max Air flight carrying the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Umar Usman Kadafur, along with numerous other passengers, experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff. The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 5, 2024, causing panic among those onboard.

The aircraft, which departed from Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport en route to Maiduguri, reportedly developed technical difficulties minutes into the flight. Witnesses on the plane described a sudden loud noise followed by visible flames emitting from one of the engines. The pilots acted swiftly, declaring an emergency and executing an immediate return to the Abuja airport.

Thanks to the quick response of the flight crew, the aircraft managed to land safely, averting what could have been a major disaster. All passengers, including the Deputy Governor and other high-profile individuals, disembarked unharmed. Emergency response teams and airport personnel promptly secured the scene to ensure passengers’ safety and to investigate the incident.

In an official statement, Max Air expressed regret over the scare and reassured the public of their commitment to safety, emphasizing that their team is working with aviation authorities to determine the cause of the engine fire.

Borno State officials have confirmed that Deputy Governor Kadafur is safe and has resumed his official duties. The aviation industry in Nigeria has faced increasing scrutiny over safety protocols, and this incident underscores the need for constant vigilance and adherence to international standards.

Passengers and officials alike have commended the pilots and crew for their professionalism in managing the emergency, turning a potentially tragic event into a story of survival and expertise. Investigations are ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.