The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced five airlines that will airlift Nigerian pilgrims for the 2027 hajj exercise.
A statement by NAHCON listed the companies to include Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air and UMZA Aviation Services Limited.
The statement noted that the selection follows a rigorous screening and evaluation process conducted by the Aviation Screening Committee in accordance with regulatory safety, operational capacity, and financial guidelines.
Daily Trust reports that this will be the first time two Saudi Airlines will be approved to ferry Nigerian pilgrims.
Previously, FlyNas had been the only Saudi airline contracted to fly Nigerians to the kingdom.
According to the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, which was signed in 2015, there is a 50/50 passenger split between Saudi-based carriers and local carriers.
According to NAHCON, the engagement of the five airlines is subject to execution of an airlift agreement with NAHCON and fulfilment of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Saudi General Authority on Civil Aviation (GACA) requirements for Hajj 2027.”
“Passenger allocations and airlift schedules will be worked out with respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and operators accordingly.
“All carriers are expected to operate in line with Hajj 2027 regulations which include issuance of tickets linked to the pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data; strict observance of all safety standards; baggage allowance (a single 32kg bag and one 8kg hand luggage) as stipulated by regulatory authorities, among others,” the commission said.
It called on all stakeholders to cooperate with the approved carriers to ensure a seamless, safe, and comfortable airlift operation for all Nigerian pilgrims.
Daily Trust
