The Deputy Governor of Borno State, Umar Kadafur, and over 100 other passengers narrowly escaped a potential tragedy when their Max Air flight experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.
The incident occurred around 7 PM on Wednesday as the aircraft, en route to Abuja, suffered engine failure caused by a bird strike just 10 minutes after departure.
Sources confirmed that the pilot and crew managed to safely execute an emergency landing back at Maiduguri Airport, avoiding disaster. A Max Air staff member explained, “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.”
Following the incident, the airline provided an alternative aircraft for passengers willing to continue the journey, while others chose to collect their luggage and return home.
