The video, shared across social media platforms and news websites, depicted distressing moments on board, with passengers reportedly experiencing suffocation and fainting.
EgyptAir explained that the discomfort was caused by a sudden malfunction in the aircraft's air conditioning system, causing the cabin temperature to increase significantly.
According to the statement, the incident occurred following the flight’s departure from Cairo International Airport at 5:25am on Wednesday.
Shortly after the plane began taxiing on the runway, one of the passengers experienced severe fatigue and exhaustion.
Upon noticing the passenger's distress, the flight crew immediately sought the assistance of a doctor who was among the passengers.
The doctor evaluated the situation and determined that the affected individual required medical attention. The crew notified the pilot, who, out of caution, decided to return the aircraft to the departure gate at 5:40am, just 15 minutes after the take-off.
Upon returning to the gate, an ambulance arrived promptly to assess the passenger’s condition.
Despite the medical team's concerns, the passenger insisted on continuing the journey, and the paramedics ultimately agreed that the individual was fit to fly, with the flight finally taking off again at 7:10am, continuing its route to New Jersey.
Meanwhile, the cabin crew worked diligently to reassure and calm the other passengers, who had become agitated due to the rising heat.
In its statement, EgyptAir expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused by the air conditioning failure, noting that it is actively reaching out to affected passengers to offer appropriate apologies and support.
The airline reassured passengers that a comprehensive investigation is underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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