The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that Max Air will suspend its domestic flight operations for three months, effective midnight, January 31, 2025.
The decision follows a recent incident involving the airline, where one of its aircraft lost a landing gear tyre during landing. The development prompted an internal appraisal of Max Air’s operations, as well as a regulatory review by the NCAA.
In a statement on Wednesday, Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, said the suspension is intended to allow Max Air’s management to conduct a thorough internal review of its operations.
“It is instructive to note that the NCAA had commenced organizational risk profiles for each scheduled operator, including Max Air, which is nearing its conclusion,” Achimugu stated.
**“However, as a result of this incident, Max Air is suspending its domestic flight operations for a period of three months with effect from midnight, 31st January, 2025, to allow for an internal appraisal of its operations by its management.
“During this 3-month period, the NCAA will conduct a thorough safety and economic audit on Max Air.”**
The NCAA explained that the safety audit will include a reassessment of Max Air’s organisational structure, operational procedures, personnel, and aircraft, in line with Part 1.3.3.3(b) of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.
Additionally, an economic audit will be conducted to evaluate the airline’s financial health and capacity to sustain safe flight operations.
“The resumption of Max Air’s domestic flight operations will be predicated on the satisfactory completion of this audit,” Achimugu said.
