NAHCON approves five airlines for 2027 Hajj airlift

NAHCON chair, Ismail Yusuf
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has approved five air carriers to participate in the airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj.

In a circular issued in Abuja on Thursday, the Commission said the approved carriers are Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air and UMZA Aviation Services Limited.

NAHCON said the selection followed a rigorous screening and evaluation process conducted by its Aviation Screening Committee, in line with regulatory requirements on safety, operational capacity and financial capability.

“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) wishes to inform the general public, State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, particularly intending pilgrims, that the government has approved the engagement of five air carriers for the 2027 Hajj exercise,” the circular stated.

The Commission said the engagement of the carriers is subject to the execution of airlift agreements with NAHCON and compliance with requirements set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).

It said passenger allocations and airlift schedules would be finalised in consultation with the respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and the approved operators.

NAHCON added that all carriers would be required to comply with Hajj 2027 regulations, including the issuance of tickets linked to pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data and strict adherence to applicable safety standards.

The regulations also include baggage allowances of one 32kg checked bag and one 8kg hand luggage, as stipulated by the relevant regulatory authorities.

The Commission urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the approved carriers to ensure a seamless, safe and comfortable airlift operation for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.