"The ministry is prepared to support the pilgrims' return, ensuring both the readiness of debarkation airport facilities and the aircraft fleet," said Putu Eka Cahyadhi, the ministry's Director of Air Transportation, during a coordination meeting with the Religious Affairs Ministry on Friday.
The meeting addressed preparations for the return of pilgrims from June 22 to July 22.
Cahyadhi emphasized the Transportation Ministry's commitment to ensuring the readiness of Saudia Airlines and Garuda Indonesia's fleets.
In preparation for the pilgrims' return to Indonesia, the ministry has intensified its focus on safety, security, and service aspects.
The ministry has also issued an adjustment permit to Garuda regarding the change in departure schedules for 19 groups, originally planned to depart from Medina airport to Jeddah airport.
With this adjustment, Medina airport will handle the return flights for 49 Hajj pilgrim groups.
Both airlines have conveyed their readiness to handle the return of Hajj pilgrims, particularly elderly pilgrims, Cahyadhi said.
Saiful Mujab, Director of Domestic Hajj Services at the Religious Affairs Ministry, echoed the sentiment, urging Garuda and Saudia to ensure smooth and safe return flights for the pilgrims. Related news: House member sheds light on 2024 Hajj-related evaluations
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Translator: M Harianto, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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