Borno State Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur and over 100 passengers narrowly avoided disaster on Wednesday evening when a Max Air aircraft experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m., ten minutes into the flight to Abuja, after a bird strike caused engine failure. The pilot swiftly executed an emergency landing, returning safely to Maiduguri Airport.
“Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft struck a bird mid-air, which caused one of the engines to catch fire. The pilot acted swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers,” a Max Air staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed on Thursday morning.
Passengers reportedly panicked during the ordeal, with many opting to collect their luggage and abandon their journey. However, Max Air quickly dispatched another aircraft from Kano to transport the stranded passengers, including the deputy governor, safely to Abuja.
Apart from Kadafur, the flight carried other government officials, including a commissioner, special advisers, and senior aides.
The damaged aircraft remains grounded at Maiduguri International Airport, undergoing extensive repairs. Investigations into the incident have commenced.
Airport authorities praised the crew for their professionalism and reassured passengers of their commitment to safety.
