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On May 29, 2025, a private jet carrying Liberian President Joseph Boakai was involved in a serious landing scare at Roberts International Airport in Monrovia, sparking national concern and renewed scrutiny over presidential travel protocols. The aircraft, reportedly returning from an official diplomatic engagement in Abuja, Nigeria, suffered a critical malfunction upon touchdown when multiple tires burst on the runway, causing the plane to swerve before coming to a halt.
No Injuries, But Emergency Protocols Activated
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among President Boakai, his delegation, or the flight crew. The emergency prompted an immediate response from airport authorities, including the temporary closure of the airport and the cancellation of all overnight flights. Emergency teams were dispatched to secure the aircraft, remove it from the tarmac, and assess any potential runway damage.
Preliminary Cause: Overloaded Aircraft and Shifted Cargo
According to early findings, the cause of the tire burst may be linked to overloading, with reports suggesting that internal cargo shifted mid-flight. This shift likely affected the plane’s center of gravity, placing excessive stress on the landing gear during descent. Witnesses described a tense moment as the jet made a rough landing, followed by emergency vehicles quickly surrounding the aircraft to ensure the safety of those onboard.
Aviation Authorities Launch Full Investigation
The Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, in collaboration with airport management and international aviation consultants, has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident. The probe aims to determine whether the malfunction was due to mechanical failure, human error, or procedural lapses. Authorities emphasized the importance of reviewing not just the aircraft’s condition, but also the pre-flight loading and maintenance protocols.
Public Reaction: Relief and Criticism
While many Liberians expressed relief that the President was unharmed, the incident reignited public debate about his use of private jets. President Boakai has previously criticized former leaders for engaging in what he termed extravagant travel at the taxpayer’s expense. Now, critics argue that the current administration must address apparent contradictions between its stated values of austerity and its actual travel practices.
Questions About Transparency and Spending
The use of private jets by public officials has long been a sensitive topic in Liberia, a country still recovering economically and socially from years of civil unrest and underdevelopment. Many citizens are now calling for increased transparency in government travel expenses, asking whether cost-effective alternatives were considered. They also want clearer communication from the executive branch following such high-profile events.
Airport Resumes Operations, But Safety Concerns Linger
Roberts International Airport, Liberia’s main international gateway, resumed operations the following day after clearing the disabled aircraft and conducting safety inspections. While no structural damage to the runway was reported, aviation experts continue to stress the need for improved oversight on aircraft weight limits, passenger safety, and compliance with international standards.
Looking Ahead: Leadership, Responsibility, and Reform
This near-miss incident has not only underscored the importance of aviation safety but has also sparked a broader national dialogue on leadership accountability and responsible governance. As investigations continue, the Liberian public awaits clarity from the presidency and concrete steps from aviation regulators to ensure such events do not repeat. Beyond the technical aspects, the incident has become a moment of reflection about how government leaders choose to represent their values, manage risk, and maintain public trust.
