A Max Air Boeing 737, carrying 119 passengers and six crew members, encountered a significant incident on Sunday evening at Yola Airport while en route to Abuja. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft, flight number NGL1649 with registration 5N-ADB, lost four tyres, causing a rejected takeoff.
According to a statement by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the aircraft had been cleared for takeoff when a loud bang was heard from the belly of the plane. This was identified as the bursting of the rear gear tyres. Initially, two tyres burst, and while attempting to taxi off the runway, the remaining two tyres also burst, rendering the aircraft completely immobilized.
NSIB spokesperson, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that no injuries were reported among the passengers and crew.
In response to the incident, a go-team led by NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. will visit the site on Monday morning to conduct a thorough investigation.
This incident highlights the critical importance of aircraft maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such occurrences and ensure the safety of all onboard.
