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Borno's Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers narrowly escaped a Max Air mishap when a bird strike caused an engine fire shortly after takeoff. The pilot’s quick action led to an emergency landing in Maiduguri, preventing disaster. Investigations are ongoing into the incident.

On December 4, 2024, Borno's Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, and over 100 passengers narrowly escaped a serious incident when a Max Air flight encountered an engine fire shortly after takeoff from Maiduguri International Airport.

The aircraft, en route to Abuja, experienced engine failure around 10 minutes into the flight due to a bird strike. The engine fire prompted the pilot and crew to carry out an emergency return to Maiduguri Airport. Their quick response helped avoid a potential disaster.

A source from Max Air confirmed that the bird strike caused the engine fire. Thanks to the pilot’s prompt action, all passengers were safely returned to the airport. Following the emergency landing, some passengers were distressed and opted to retrieve their luggage and go home, while others, including the Deputy Governor, were reassured and booked onto another flight from Kano to Abuja.

The aircraft involved remains grounded at Maiduguri International Airport for inspection and repairs. Authorities at the airport have assured passengers that safety measures are a priority, and they have praised the professionalism shown by the crew during the incident. Investigations into the cause of the bird strike and the resulting engine fire are ongoing.