Saudia begins its massive operation to fly Hajis home

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has begun operating more than 1,600 Haj return flights to all destinations from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed International Airport in Madinah following the end of the annual pilgrimage. “We will operate 1,531 international flights and 76 domestic flights to transport pilgrims to their destinations,” said Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, director-general of the national flag carrier, which plays a significant role in the country’s massive Haj operation. He said Saudia extends integrated services to pilgrims in coordination with various government departments, including the General Authority of Civil Aviation, the Haj Ministry and the Passport Department. “Saudia’s strategic plan to transport Haj pilgrims from 100 foreign and domestic destinations was a big success,” the director-general said, adding that the plan aims at transporting 818,000 pilgrims. He said the newly purchased Boeing and Airbus aircraft, as well as 29 rented planes, enabled the airline to offer the best services to the guests of God. “We have achieved high rates for on-time performance in Haj flights and ensured 100 percent security for pilgrims,” he added.   Arab News