Kano Airport runway shut over Max Air tyre burst

• Published On: 29 January 2025 at 17:26

The runway at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport has been temporarily closed for inspection and clearance due to a tyre burst on a Max Air plane while landing on Tuesday night.

Flight VM1605 (registration 5N-MBD) experienced a tyre burst at 10:57 p.m.

Fortunately, all 53 passengers and crew were safely evacuated with no injuries.

On Wednesday at 4:28 a.m., the aircraft was removed from the runway and relocated to Taxiway B.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has ordered a thorough inspection of the runway before it is reopened.

Flight disruptions are expected as the runway remains closed for inspection.

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has also opened an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, in a statement on its official X account on Wednesday morning, Max Air apologized for the inconvenience and assured passengers that flight schedule updates would be provided.

"As a result, the Kano runway will be temporarily closed for inspection and clearance, which may cause delays in flight operations today, Wednesday, January 29, 2024.

"We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience as we await further updates on the runway reopening," the company announced.

The airline assured the public that the situation was professionally handled, with the crew ensuring a safe evacuation.

"Our crew dealt with the situation professionally, ensuring the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew members. "There were no injuries, and the aircraft was removed from the runway as of 04:28," Max Air reported.