Nigerian Pilgrims Allege Neglect at Saudi Airport, Fault Max Air Over Delayed Return Flights
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Some Nigerian pilgrims have raised concerns over alleged neglect by Max Air at a Saudi airport, following delays in their scheduled return to Nigeria after completing their Umrah pilgrimage.
In a video obtained by Hajj Gazette, the affected passengers were seen gathered at the airport, expressing frustration over what they described as a lack of coordination and support from the airline despite arriving for departure formalities.
The pilgrims claimed they had been left unattended for hours without clear communication regarding their flight status.
The passengers further alleged that some Umrah pilgrims who were scheduled to depart a day earlier had yet to arrive in Nigeria, raising broader concerns about possible disruptions in the airline’s return flight operations.
The situation has sparked anxiety among the stranded travelers, many of whom are eager to reunite with their families after completing their religious obligations.
The absence of timely updates, according to the pilgrims, has compounded the uncertainty surrounding their journey home.
Efforts by Hajj Gazette to obtain an official response from Max Air were unsuccessful, as the airline’s known phone lines were switched off and not reachable at the time of filing this report.
As of press time, there has been no formal statement from the airline addressing the allegations. Aviation stakeholders and relevant authorities are yet to comment on the situation.
The development highlights growing concerns over the management of pilgrimage return operations and underscores the need for improved coordination and communication between airlines and passengers during high-volume travel periods.
