NCAA convenes stakeholders’ meeting with airlines, Hajj operators ahead of 2026 pilgrimage
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Thursday convened a high-level meeting with Hajj airlines and the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) at its Abuja headquarters to address operational challenges and assess preparedness for the 2026 Hajj airlift.
Represented by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards and Chairman of the Hajj Committee, Alhaji Ahmad Abba, NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, noted that the engagement provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on flight patterns, airport operations, schedules, and pilgrim numbers. He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring safe, smooth, and successful Hajj operations.
In his briefing, Alhaji Abba highlighted the critical importance of early planning and effective stakeholder coordination to guarantee safe and efficient airlift operations.
The meeting reviewed operational challenges encountered during previous Hajj exercises and assessed the readiness of airlines for the 2026 pilgrimage.
Key discussion points included aircraft types and deployment numbers, slot allocations by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia, as well as arrangements for fueling and ground handling services in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
Representatives from participating airlines, including Air Peace, Flynas, Max Air, and UMZA Air, presented their operational preparedness and highlighted specific issues from past Hajj operations that require resolution.
Also in attendance was Mrs. Olayinka T. Babaoye-Iriobe, Director of Air Transport Regulation, who emphasised the need to review the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. Other members of the NCAA Hajj Committee were also present.
