By Mubarak Mahmood
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced a new date for the completion of the 2025 Hajj return airlift, pushing the final flight to Tuesday, July 2nd.
The Commission says this extension is necessary due to post-Hajj airspace congestion and a number of unforeseen flight delays.
According to the Commission, although airlift operations have improved significantly with Nigerian carriers now allocated up to seven flights daily, the June 28th target initially set for conclusion is no longer feasible.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON disclosed that: “The general pace of operations had been slower than anticipated due to post-Hajj airspace congestion and flight cancellations for various reasons.”
She noted that: “Despite the increase in slots, the return airlift of pilgrims may not be concluded by June 28th as earlier projected. This may not be possible until Tuesday, 2nd July 2025, barring any further unforeseen disruptions.”
As of now, out of the 41,668 Nigerian pilgrims that were airlifted to Saudi Arabia, over 27,316 have returned home. This number excludes those who traveled back via commercial flights for urgent personal matters.
Providing a breakdown of the pilgrims yet to return:
Max Air has 6,019 pilgrims left, with a daily capacity of 1,120 passengers using two aircraft with 560 seats each.
UMZA Aviation Services has 4,850 passengers remaining, operating with two aircraft totaling 796 seats.
FlyNas has 2,480 pilgrims left and a daily carriage capacity of 819.
Air Peace still has 1,635 pilgrims to transport using a 315-seat aircraft.
NAHCON reiterated its commitment to ensuring the earliest possible return of all pilgrims, stating: “The Commission remains determined to facilitate the earliest possible return for all pilgrims.”
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