The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has said it will open an investigation to ascertain the cause of Max Air’s malfunction on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

The spokesman of NSIB, Bimbo Oladeji, made this known in a statement on Monday, adding that Max Air’s flight NGL1649, a Boeing 737 with registration 5N-ADB, experienced a significant malfunction during its takeoff roll at Yola Airport.

“This evening, Max Air’s flight NGL1649, a Boeing 737 with registration 5N-ADB, carrying 119 passengers and six crew members, was cleared for takeoff from Yola Airport en route to Abuja,” Oladeji said.

“During the takeoff roll, a loud bang was heard, identified as the bursting of the rear gear tyres. Initially, two tyres burst. While attempting to taxi off the runway, the remaining two tyres also burst, rendering the aircraft completely disabled.

“Fortunately, no injuries were reported. A go-team, led by NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr., will visit the incident site tomorrow morning to conduct an investigation.”

Reacting via a statement on Monday, the management of Max Air said its crew aborted takeoff from Yola Airport after detecting some unusual vibrations on the aircraft.

It explained that in accordance with its commitment to safety, the crew promptly halted the aircraft and ensured the safe disembarkation of all passengers and crew members.

Max Air said it is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities to determine the root cause of this incident, following standard aviation protocols.

“Preliminary investigations are currently underway, and further details will be provided as they become available,” the airline said.

“Max Air remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety and service. We thank our passengers for their understanding and patience.”