President Director of Garuda Indonesia Irfan Setiaputra stated here on Thursday that his side continues to intensify coordination with various stakeholders that serve and support Hajj flights, especially the Saudi Arabian airport authority and the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Setiaputra affirmed that this aims to ensure the smooth implementation of Hajj returning flights and as a mitigation measure to anticipate changes in flight schedules at the Saudi Arabian airports.
"This commitment is aligned with efforts to optimize mitigation, including the provision of compensation in accordance with the applicable provision to all pilgrims affected by the adjustment of the flight schedules," Setiaputra remarked.
The president director noted that his side focuses on prioritizing the comfort of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims who will return to their homeland.
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He explained that Hajj flights are considered complex flight operations, so Garuda Indonesia has been coordinating with the related stakeholders.
Through this coordination, the Saudi Arabian airport authority stated that 68 flight slots could not be fulfilled as requested by Garuda Indonesia, as there was a change in the flight slot arrangement policy on their side.
Concerning these changes, Garuda Indonesia, supported by the Religious Affairs Ministry, continued to conduct negotiations with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
Through that coordination, it was deemed necessary to change the schedules of at least 46 flights.
Regarding the schedule adjustment, Garuda Indonesia ensures that the company is taking responsibility by preparing additional facilities in the form of accommodation, food, and transportation for which it will bear the expenses.
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Translator: Maria P, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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