Nigerian passengers aboard EgyptAir flights from Cairo to Abuja and Kano remain stranded at the Cairo International Airport hours after their scheduled departure, amid accusations of inhumane treatment and denial of passenger rights.

The affected flight, EgyptAir MS879, was originally scheduled to depart Cairo for Abuja at about 9:00 a.m. on Sunday.

Passengers say the flight was first delayed to 12 noon, later shifted to 3:30 p.m., and eventually rescheduled for 5:30 p.m., with no clear explanation, refreshments, accommodation, or compensation provided by the airline.

As of the time of filing this report, the passengers were still waiting at the airport, uncertain if the flight would eventually depart.

Passengers on the Cairo–Kano route are facing similar delays under the same conditions.

Several business class passengers also alleged that they were downgraded to economy class without prior notice or explanation, further worsening the situation.

Some passengers who approached EgyptAir staff to inquire about their rights and possible compensation were allegedly told that only European passengers delayed for more than five hours are entitled to benefits, including monetary compensation of up to $600.

Passengers have described the situation as discriminatory and degrading.

The incident mirrors a recent case involving Saudi Arabian Airlines, where Nigerian passengers were similarly maltreated before Saudi authorities issued a formal apology to the Nigerian government.

Efforts to obtain an official response from EgyptAir as of press time proved unsuccessful.