NAHCON Approves 5 Airlines for 2027 Hajj Airlift

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has approved five air carriers to transport Nigerian pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia for the 2027 Hajj.

The Commission announced the approval in a public notice issued on Thursday, following a screening and evaluation exercise conducted by its Aviation Screening Committee.

NAHCON said the assessment considered regulatory safety requirements, operational capacity and financial guidelines.

However, it stressed that the approval remains subject to the execution of airlift agreements with the Commission and the fulfilment of all requirements set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).

The five approved carriers are Air Peace Limited, Flynas, Max Air Limited, Saudi Air and UMZA Aviation Services Limited.

According to NAHCON, passenger allocations and airlift schedules will be developed in collaboration with the respective State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions, as well as the approved airlines.

The Commission said all operators would be required to comply fully with regulations governing the 2027 Hajj, including issuing tickets linked to pilgrims’ Nusuk-Masar data and adhering strictly to applicable aviation safety standards.

NAHCON also reminded stakeholders that the approved baggage allowance is one 32kg checked bag and one 8kg hand luggage, in line with the requirements of the relevant regulatory authorities.

The Commission urged State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and intending pilgrims to cooperate with the approved carriers to ensure a safe, smooth and comfortable airlift operation.

The approval marks a significant step in Nigeria’s preparations for the Hajj 2027 (1448 AH) expected to take place between May 14 and May 19, 2027, with the pivotal Day of Arafah falling on May 15, 2027, and Eid al-Adha on May 16, 2027. Exact dates remain subject to the official lunar sighting of Dhul Hijjah in Saudi Arabia.