A Nigerian Carrier, Max Air’s flight NGL1649, a Boeing 737 with registration 5N-ADB, experienced a significant incident during its takeoff from Yola Airport yesterday.
According to Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) the aircraft, carrying 119 passengers and 6 crew members, was cleared for takeoff en route to Abuja when a loud bang was heard during the takeoff roll.
This sound was later identified as the bursting of the rear gear tyres.
READ: Africa: AIB commence investigation into Max Air incident at Minna Airport
Initially, two of the aircraft’s rear tyres burst. In an attempt to taxi off the runway, the remaining two rear tyres also burst, leaving the aircraft completely disabled on the runway. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the passengers and crew.
She said the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is taking swift action to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. A go-team led by NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. will visit the site tomorrow morning to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the tyre failures.
Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, reassured the public that the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew members remain the top priority.
