The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has approved five air carriers to transport Nigerian pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The commission disclosed this in a circular issued in Abuja on Thursday, stating that the approved carriers were selected following a rigorous screening and evaluation process.
The airlines are Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air and UMZA Aviation Services Limited.
According to NAHCON, the selection was conducted by its Aviation Screening Committee in line with applicable regulatory requirements covering aviation safety, operational capacity and financial capability.
The commission said the engagement of the approved carriers would be subject to the execution of airlift agreements with NAHCON and compliance with the requirements of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) for the 2027 Hajj.
“NAHCON wishes to inform the general public, State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, particularly intending pilgrims, that Government has approved the engagement of five air carriers for the 2027 Hajj exercise,” the circular stated.
The commission added that passenger allocations and airlift schedules would be determined in consultation with the respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and the approved operators.
NAHCON further directed all approved carriers to comply strictly with the regulations governing the 2027 Hajj airlift operations.
These requirements include issuing tickets linked to pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data and maintaining all prescribed aviation and operational safety standards.
The commission also highlighted baggage regulations, which provide for one 32-kilogramme checked bag and one 8-kilogramme hand luggage, in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
NAHCON urged all stakeholders, including State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, intending pilgrims and the approved airlines, to cooperate fully to ensure a safe, seamless and comfortable airlift operation for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.
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