Sequence & Resolution
Event Date05/11/2026
Level
Incident
CategoryEngine Problem
Flight PhaseClimb
Affected AltitudeFL080
Technical Issue Details
•The Boeing 737-300 (5N-DAB) was operating flight VM1620 from Abuja (ABV) to Katsina (DKA).
•Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff, during the initial climb, the flight crew detected an engine-related anomaly.
•Passengers reported hearing loud banging sounds and experiencing a sudden loss of altitude.
Outcome / Handling
•The flight crew initiated an air return to Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
•The aircraft landed safely in Abuja, and all passengers and crew members disembarked without injuries.
Current Status
•Max Air dispatched a replacement Boeing 737-300 (5N-DMK) from Kano to Abuja to transport the passengers to Katsina.
•The occurrence aircraft was grounded in Abuja for technical inspection and repair.
•The airline committed to cooperating fully with safety oversight reviews by local civil aviation authorities.
Sourcewww.premiumtimesng.com
Flight Information
Flight NumberVM1620
Flight Duration12 minutes
Departure Runway22 (ABV)
Landing Runway22 (ABV)
Involved AirlineMax Air
Involved FlightVM1620
Replacement Aircraft5N-DMK