2026 Hajj: NAHCON assures airlines of govt support

AS the inbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the completion of this year’s Hajj gathers momentum, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reassured the four airlines participating in the operation of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring they do not incur losses.

According to the commission, the assurance became necessary against the backdrop of the anticipated high cost of aviation fuel.

The four airlines approved for this year’s airlift operation are Max Air, Air Peace, Umza Air Services and Saudi-based Flynas.

NAHCON expressed appreciation to the airlines for their cooperation, support and understanding despite concerns over the high cost of aviation fuel.

Before the commencement of the outbound airlift to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise, there were fears that the rising cost of aviation fuel, popularly known as Jet A1, could lead to an increase in Hajj fares. However, the exercise was successfully conducted without any additional cost to pilgrims.

“NAHCON continues to appreciate the cooperation, support and understanding of the four official air carriers, who commenced operations on schedule despite the backdrop of the anticipated high cost of aviation fuel.

“The commission seizes this opportunity to reassure the carriers of government’s determination to assist in ensuring that they do not suffer losses from the airlift operation,” the commission stated in a statement made available to the Nigerian Tribune in Makkah.

The return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims commenced on Wednesday with the first batch of 560 pilgrims from Nasarawa State transported by Max Air from King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

As of 3.54 p.m. Saudi time (1.54 p.m. Nigerian time) on Thursday, a total of 1,891 pilgrims had been airlifted home through four flights.

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Meanwhile, NAHCON has advised pilgrims to adhere to the approved baggage allowance of two checked bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one piece of hand luggage not exceeding eight kilograms.

It also warned against including Zamzam water or prohibited items in their luggage.

The commission said compliance with the baggage guidelines would facilitate smooth screening and faster clearance for departure.

It listed prohibited items to include flammable substances such as lighter fluid, lithium batteries and power banks packed in checked baggage, aerosols, excessive quantities of liquids and sharp objects in hand luggage.

NAHCON warned that such items would be confiscated during screening, potentially exposing affected luggage to tampering.

The commission said: “As this homebound phase commences in earnest, pilgrims are advised to adhere strictly to the approved baggage allowance of two checked bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one hand luggage not exceeding eight kilograms. Multiple hand luggage will not be condoned.

“Pilgrims should note that luggage screening is scheduled to take place 48 hours before departure. This is to ensure that they receive their luggage promptly upon arrival in Nigeria.

“Compliance with these requirements will facilitate smooth screening and quicker clearance for departure.

“Similarly, pilgrims are reminded not to include Zamzam water or prohibited items in their luggage, as such items will be confiscated during screening, thereby exposing their bags to tampering.

“Prohibited items include flammable substances such as lighter fluid, lithium batteries and power banks packed in checked baggage, aerosols, excessive quantities of liquids, and sharp objects in hand luggage.”