By Elizabeth Ugbo
Flynas has deployed six wide-body aircraft to airlift 12,550 Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj. The operation will run from key Nigerian airports to Saudi Arabia, beginning in 2026. Alhaji Umar Kaila, CEO of First Planet Travels and Flynas’ GSA, confirmed the plan in Abuja. He said the airline aims to deliver seamless, world-class services. The initiative supports Nigeria’s Hajj coordination efforts and improves travel experience.
Flynas Strengthens 2026 Hajj Airlift Plans
Flynas will use six Airbus A330 aircraft for the pilgrimage. Four planes will carry 430 passengers each. The remaining two will accommodate 345 passengers each.
As a result, the airline increases capacity and reduces travel delays. This move also ensures smooth coordination with Nigerian authorities.
Pilgrims to Depart from Multiple Nigerian Airports
Flynas will operate from several major airports across Nigeria. These include:
- Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos
- Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna
- Kaduna International Airport
- Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja
Therefore, pilgrims from Kebbi, Lagos, Osun, Kaduna, Niger, Ogun, and Nasarawa states will benefit directly.
Commitment to Quality Service Delivery
Alhaji Umar Kaila emphasized Flynas’ commitment to excellence. He noted that Nigerian pilgrims receive top-tier treatment every year.
“Flynas has proved that Nigerian pilgrims are kings,” he said.
Moreover, the airline has trained over 100 Nigerian staff members ahead of the operation. These refresher courses aim to improve service delivery and passenger care.
Collaboration with NAHCON and Other Agencies
Flynas assured the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) of full cooperation. The airline also pledged strong coordination with state pilgrims boards and federal agencies.
This collaboration will ensure a smooth and efficient Hajj airlift process.
Flynas’ Presence in Nigeria מאז 2014
Flynas has operated in Nigeria since 2014 under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Saudi Arabia. Over the years, it has expanded operations and improved services.
Currently, the airline boasts over 61 aircraft. It operates more than 1,500 weekly flights across 139 routes in 30 countries.




