Saudi Arabia bound Max Air Boeing 747 flight airlifting 554 pilgrims on Wednesday developed fault shortly after takeoff from Dutse Airport and was forced to land at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
The management of Max Air in a statement confirmed the occurrence while explaining that the aircraft encountered severe weather conditions.
The management added that the windscreen of the aircraft had a slight crack shortly after it took off from Dutse Airport, prompting the aircraft to divert to MAKIA.
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All the pilgrims have been taken care of and that they have been safely transferred to another aircraft to continue their journey to the holy land, the statement said.
The airline assured its passengers that it is committed to passengers safety and comfort, adding that the incident was due to adverse weather conditions.
It added that the prompt and professional response by the crew ensured a smooth diversion and landing mitigating any potential risk.
Max Air says it maintains rigorous maintenance standards to ensure the airworthiness of its fleet in compliance with international aviation regulations.
