Max Air had voluntarily suspended its domestic operations for 90 days in January 2025 after a series of flight incidents raised concerns about its safety standards. During the suspension, the NCAA conducted an extensive audit from February 26 to 28, 2025, to assess the airline’s compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023. The audit covered the airline’s organizational structure, operations, personnel, and maintenance practices.
NCAA’s Assurance of Compliance and Enhanced Monitoring
In its statement, the NCAA confirmed that Max Air had met all regulatory requirements, paving the way for the resumption of its domestic services. “Following the successful completion of an economic and safety audit, the Director-General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has approved Max Air to resume its domestic flight operations,” the statement read.
The NCAA also emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in the aviation sector. To ensure continued compliance, the agency will implement an enhanced surveillance program to closely monitor Max Air’s operations.
Background on Max Air’s Suspension
Max Air’s decision to suspend operations followed a series of safety incidents. On January 28, 2025, a Boeing 737 (5N-MBD) experienced a nose wheel collapse and rear tire burst while landing at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. The aircraft, carrying 53 passengers and six crew members, landed safely, and no injuries were reported.
Earlier, on July 21, 2024, another Boeing 737 (5N-ADB) operating flight NGL1649 encountered a critical malfunction at Yola Airport. During takeoff, two rear gear tires burst, and the remaining two failed as the crew attempted to taxi off the runway, leaving the aircraft immobilized. The flight had 119 passengers and six crew members on board.
Further concerns about Max Air’s safety practices emerged from a 2023 report by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), which found the airline guilty of overwriting Cockpit Voice Recorder data after a serious landing incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on May 7, 2023.
Max Air’s Return to Operations
With the NCAA’s clearance, Max Air is set to resume domestic flights across Nigeria. The airline’s return marks a significant step in its efforts to rebuild trust and demonstrate its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
The NCAA’s decision underscores its role in ensuring the safety and reliability of Nigeria’s aviation sector, while Max Air’s resumption of operations signals a new chapter for the airline as it works to restore its reputation and serve passengers safely.