Many flights were canceled at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, after a plane crash-landed, causing the runway to be closed.

The aircraft belonging to Max Air witnessed tyre bursts on Sunday as it landed in Abuja, from Yola, in north-eastern Adamawa state.

The Aerodrome Rescue and Fire-fighting Service (ARFFS) operating at the airport were swiftly mobilised to put off the fire that emanated from the left landing wheel.

All 143 passengers aboard the affected Max Air flight disembarked safely along the runway and were conveyed to the airport building.

The incident caused many flight cancellations and delays across Nigeria. Airport officials later confirmed that affected aircraft had been removed on Sunday evening and the runway was cleared for reopening.

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While reacting in a statement, the management of Max Air Sunday evening said the affected aircraft had 143 passengers and an infant onboard.

“…the aircraft experienced two tire bursts on landing in Abuja, and the emergency response team quickly responded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport,” the statement noted.

“We are pleased to report that all passengers and crew on board the aircraft are safe and sound.”

“The aircraft tires are being replaced and the aircraft will taxi to the ramp for further investigations before being released for future flights,” the statement said.

Max Air assured that it would continue to provide updates on the situation.

“The airline would like to extend its appreciation to the airport authorities, emergency services, and all relevant agencies who responded promptly and professionally to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew on board,” the airline

Speaking on the incident, former President of the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Dr Mike Ogirima, said the tyre pulled out after take-off at Yola Airport.

Ogirima said, “We thank God. We were still on the runway when the pilot reassured us. He had called for the stairs and disembarked from the runway to be evacuated to the airport building at the arrival hall.

“We bless God because we witnessed the pull out of the tyre right from the airport in Yola and we went into prayer session. I never announced it as a surgeon, so as not to cause any panic but we bless God.”