As the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commenced today, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged the pilgrims to adhere strictly to the approved baggage allowance of two check-in bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one hand luggage not exceeding 8 kilograms.
It said multiple hand luggage will not be condoned.
The return airlift commenced with the departure of 560 pilgrims from Nasarawa State, marking the beginning of the homebound phase of the 2026 Hajj operations with pilgrims spending approximately 30 days in the Kingdom.
In a press statement, NAHCON said three additional return flights are scheduled for later today.
As this phase commenced earnestly, the commission said pilgrims should note that luggage screening is scheduled to take place 48 hours prior to departure date.
“This is in order that they will receive their luggage early upon arrival in Nigeria. Compliance with these requirements will facilitate smooth screening and quicker clearance of pilgrims for departure,” it said.
It added: “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.”
In another development, NAHCON appreciated the cooperation, support, and understanding of the four official air carriers who commenced operation on schedule, even against the backdrop of envisaged high cost of aviation fuel.
The Commission re-assured the carriers of government’s determination to assist in ensuring that the carriers do not suffer loses from the airlift operation.
Meanwhile, the NAHCON Command and Control Centre in Makkah has issued the timetable for the return airlift for today.
It indicates that MaxAir flight NGL263 departed Jeddah to Abuja at 10:54 hrs with 560 pilgrims comprising 559 from Nasarawa State and 1 from Katsina. Total Airlifts = 1,546 and total Flights = 03.
