Five Airlines Set for 2027 Hajj Airlift

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has given the green light to five airlines to transport Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2027 Hajj.

In a statement on Thursday, the Commission said this decision came after a thorough screening by its Aviation Screening Committee.

The assessment looked at safety regulations, operational abilities, and financial stability of the airlines.

The five airlines that received approval are Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air, and UMZA Aviation Services Limited.

NAHCON stated that the airlines can only engage after signing airlift agreements with the Commission. They must also meet requirements from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).

The Commission mentioned that they will work with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and the airlines to set passenger allocations and flight schedules.

All airlines must follow regulations for the 2027 airlift. This includes issuing tickets that connect to the pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data.

The selection of the airlines resulted from careful evaluation by the Aviation Screening Committee based on safety, operational capacity, and financial guidelines. The final engagement relies on signing an airlift agreement with NAHCON and meeting the NCAA and GACA requirements for Hajj 2027.

The approved airlines are:

1. Air Peace Limited.
2. Flynas.
3. Max Air Limited.
4. Saudi Air.
5. UMZA Aviation Services Limited.

Details about passenger allocations and schedules will be arranged with the relevant State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and operators. All carriers are expected to adhere to Hajj 2027 regulations. This includes ticket issuance linked to pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data, following safety standards, and respecting baggage rules (one 32kg bag and one 8kg hand luggage) as set by the regulatory authorities.

The Commission urges all parties involved to work with the approved airlines. This will help ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable airlift for Nigerian pilgrims.