Flynas will begin transporting Nigerian Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia on June 4, 2026, starting with return flights from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The airline, designated as Nigeria's official Hajj carrier, will operate inbound flights using six A330 wide-body Boeing aircraft. The first flight will carry pilgrims from Ogun State to Gateway International Airport in Abeokuta, while a second flight the same day will transport Kebbi State pilgrims to Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi. Additional flights are scheduled for June 5 to both destinations.
Mahmood Muhammad Abande, spokesperson for Flynas Media Office, confirmed the schedule in a statement issued June 2, 2026. Alhaji Umar Kaila, Managing Director/CEO of First Planet Travels Limited and General Sales Agent for Flynas in Nigeria, said arrangements were in place for a seamless operation. He noted that during the outbound phase, Flynas transported 11,342 pilgrims and officials to Saudi Arabia in 30 flights within two weeks. The airline has also delivered 13,832 units of five-litre Zamzam water bottles to Nigeria ahead of the return.
Pilgrims from Kebbi, Lagos, Osun, Kaduna, Niger, Ogun, and Nasarawa States are scheduled for repatriation. Malam Ahmad Ruma, Flynas Coordinator of Operations, met with ground staff in Makkah the previous Monday to review procedures and logistics. Ruma urged staff to maintain professionalism while managing luggage and supporting pilgrims in accommodations and at airports.
The same airline that flew pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in record time is now tasked with bringing them home, yet the focus remains on logistics rather than the welfare of those returning. While Zamzam water quantities are specified, no detail is given on medical or emergency support for elderly or unwell pilgrims during transit. The operation's success hinges on staff conduct in Makkah, but the statement offers no accountability mechanism for lapses. Named states are set to receive returnees, but no mention is made of coordination with local health or transport agencies upon arrival.
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