By Mohamed Attia
EgyptAir has announced the continuation of its airlift operations to transport pilgrims to the holy sites in Saudi Arabia. The national airline began these operations last Wednesday, providing comprehensive services to ensure a smooth journey for all pilgrims.
Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Lieutenant General Mohamed Abbas Helmy, has instructed that all necessary measures be taken to facilitate services for the pilgrims. These measures aim to ensure the smooth and regular operation of flights to Jeddah and Medina, operated by EgyptAir, Saudi Airlines, and other carriers during the current season. The minister emphasised that the Ministry of Civil Aviation is working under a meticulously planned strategy, coordinating with all relevant parties to provide the best possible experience for the pilgrims at Cairo International Airport and other Egyptian airports.
EgyptAir has issued travel guidelines for its passengers, advising them to arrive at Egyptian airports four hours before their departure and to be present at the Hajj Terminal in Jeddah and Medina airports six hours before their return flights. Each pilgrim is allowed two pieces of luggage, each weighing no more than 23 kilogrammes, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kilogrammes. Excess baggage charges will apply. Additionally, pilgrims are permitted to carry one container of Zamzam water authorised by Saudi authorities, and the use of cloth bags and sacks is strictly prohibited. Passengers must also comply with health regulations and present the required certificates.
Yehia Zakaria, Chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company, expressed his satisfaction with the trust placed by the governments of Guinea and Mali in EgyptAir’s capabilities. This year, EgyptAir will transport over 15,000 pilgrims from these two countries to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, reinforcing the airline’s leadership in the African market. EgyptAir, established on May 7, 1932, is the first airline in Africa and the seventh in the world.
Zakaria highlighted EgyptAir’s commitment to meeting the needs of all its customers, especially during the Hajj season. Captain Mohamed Moussa, Chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Airlines, stated that the airline is honoured to serve African pilgrims this year, whether on regular flights, special services, or transit routes. EgyptAir plans to operate 33 direct special flights from Conakry, Guinea, to Medina, transporting 10,200 pilgrims, with return flights from Jeddah starting June 22 and continuing until July 5. Additionally, 17 special flights will operate directly from Bamako, Mali, to Medina, transporting 5,250 pilgrims, with return flights from Jeddah starting June 22 and continuing until July 3. These flights will be operated using the Boeing B787-9 Dreamliner, known for its high levels of comfort and luxury, accommodating 309 passengers.
Simultaneously, Cairo Airport Company has completed all necessary preparations for the Hajj season, particularly in and around the seasonal terminal dedicated to EgyptAir’s Hajj and Umrah flights, and Terminal 2, which handles Saudi Airlines flights.
Preparations include deploying public relations teams from Cairo Airport Company and EgyptAir to work around the clock in the departure and arrival halls, assigning staff to assist passengers in the passport control area, and providing ample porters and customer service personnel to manage the flow of pilgrims. Special provisions have also been made for wheelchair services for individuals with disabilities and the elderly, and “self-service” baggage carts have been made available.
The comprehensive measures reflect the collaborative efforts to ensure that the pilgrimage season runs smoothly, providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience for all Hajj pilgrims.
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