After the successful completion of this year’s Hajj exercise, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) FlyNas aircraft departed Saudi Arabia with 423 pilgrims heading to Abuja.
FlyNas, according to a statement on Friday by NAHCON’s assistant director, public affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, departed at about 8:20 am Saudi time.
It added that another FlyNas flight was expected to “leave for Nigeria later today with the second set of passengers of the FCT.”
The statement partly read, “It would be recalled that the inaugural flight from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia was conducted by Max Air.
“However, due to home advantage, FlyNas secured slots earlier than Max Air that is billed to commence its homeward journey from tomorrow, July 16, 2022, with pilgrims from Maiduguri, Borno state. Azman would not begin its return journey until July 20 due to the delay it experienced during the outbound journey to Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage.”
It added that, “According to the Head of Aviation Division, Engr. Goni Sanda, and pilgrims’ departure from the Holy Land will be in line with their arrival into the Kingdom.
“Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, the chairman, NAHCON, advised state Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards to ensure that their pilgrims’ travel documents are ready, their luggage checking and clearance should be concluded in good time ahead of pilgrims’ departure time to avoid flight delays.
“Similarly, the NAHCON helmsman advised pilgrims to avoid stocking their luggage with contraband items that may necessitate their bags being opened for removal of such contraband items.”
