The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially approved five airlines to airlift Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2027 Hajj exercise. The announcement, made in a statement on Thursday, follows a rigorous screening and evaluation process conducted by the Commission's Aviation Screening Committee, which assessed each carrier based on regulatory safety, operational capacity, and financial requirements.
Approved Carriers for 2027 Hajj
The five approved carriers are Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air, and UMZA Aviation Services Limited. NAHCON emphasized that the engagement of these airlines remains subject to the execution of airlift agreements with the Commission and the fulfilment of requirements set by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
According to the Commission, passenger allocations and flight schedules will be developed in consultation with State Muslim Pilgrims' Welfare Boards and the respective airlines. This collaborative approach aims to ensure an organized and efficient airlift operation for the approximately 95,000 Nigerian pilgrims expected to participate in the 2027 Hajj.
Operational Requirements and Compliance
The approved carriers are required to comply with all regulations governing the 2027 airlift, including the issuance of tickets linked to pilgrims' Nusuk-Masar data. This digital system is designed to streamline pilgrim tracking and ensure compliance with Saudi regulations. Additionally, airlines must adhere to strict safety standards and baggage allowances, which include a single 32kg bag and one 8kg piece of hand luggage per pilgrim, as stipulated by regulatory authorities.
NAHCON's statement highlighted that the selection process was thorough, focusing on the carriers' ability to meet the high standards required for international pilgrim transport. The Commission also noted that the engagement is subject to the execution of formal airlift agreements, which will outline the specific obligations of each party.
Stakeholder Cooperation and Next Steps
The Commission called on all stakeholders, including State Pilgrims' Welfare Boards, agencies, and intending pilgrims, to cooperate with the approved carriers to ensure a seamless, safe, and comfortable airlift operation for all Nigerian pilgrims. This cooperation is crucial for the success of the 2027 Hajj exercise, which is expected to involve significant logistical coordination.
As the 2027 Hajj approaches, NAHCON will continue to work with the approved airlines and other stakeholders to finalize schedules and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Commission's approval marks a critical step in preparing for the annual pilgrimage, which remains a significant religious obligation for Muslims in Nigeria.
