The runway at Kano Airport has been temporarily shut down for examination and clearance after a Max Air plane’s tyre ruptured while landing.
This was disclosed by the airline in a statement on its X page on Wednesday.
“As a result, the Kano runway will remain temporarily closed for inspection and clearance, which may lead to delays in flight operations today, Wednesday, 29/01/2024.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience as we await further updates on the runway reopening,” the airline added.
The incident on Tuesday night caused flight disruptions, but all passengers and crew were safely evacuated without injury.
Max Air assured the public that the situation was handled professionally. “Our crew handled the situation professionally, ensuring the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew members. There were no injuries, and the aircraft has since been removed from the runway as of 04:28,” the airline stated.
The airline applauded its engineering team for its swift response and assured passengers that updates on flight schedules would be provided as soon as possible.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), through their official X account on Wednesday morning, confirmed that the incident involved Flight VM1605, with registration number 5N-MBD.
According to the NCAA, “The pilot, cabin crew, and all 53 passengers were safely disembarked with no injuries recorded.”
The agency further stated that the aircraft had been moved from the runway to Taxiway B.
“The aircraft has been removed from the runway to Taxiway B. The NCAA has directed that a thorough runway inspection be carried out before the runway is opened.
“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has taken charge of the investigation,” the agency said.
