NSIB Confirms Max Air Tyre Burst Incident at Yola Airport, Says No Injuries Reported

A potentially disastrous incident was averted this evening at Yola Airport when Max Air’s flight NGL1649 experienced a significant mechanical failure during takeoff. 

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), in a statement signed by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that the aircraft, a Boeing 737, with the registration 5N-ADB, was preparing to depart for Abuja when the incident occurred.

NSIB explained that the aircraft had 119 passengers and 6 crew members on board when a mechanical failure occurred.

The Bureau said during the takeoff roll, a loud bang was heard, later identified as the bursting of the rear gear tyres. 

Initially, two tyres burst. While the flight crew attempted to taxi the aircraft off the runway, the remaining two tyres also burst, leaving the aircraft completely disabled on the runway.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew members. 

The NSIB said it has promptly responded to the incident with a go-team led by its Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr. to visit the site in the morning – July 22, 2024 – to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the tyre failures.

The NSIB assured the public that safety protocols are being followed to prevent future occurrences. 

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.