Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has allocated more than 3.1 million seats and will operate over 12,000 scheduled and charter flights through 6 main airports as part of its preparations for the 1447 AH Hajj season, in line with its efforts to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for the Guests of Allah.
The Authority explained that the airports covered by the plan include King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Taif International Airport and Prince Abdulmohsin bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Yanbu, enhancing operational flexibility and ensuring smooth air traffic during the season, according to a post on the Saudi Press Agency website.
As part of developing the Hajj services system, the Authority launched a number of qualitative initiatives, most notably the "Distinguished Track" initiative, which aims to encourage Hajj affairs offices and airlines to adhere to contracting timelines, supporting efficient early planning for the season.
The Authority also launched the "Multazim Award" initiative to encourage airlines to improve their operational and organizational performance and boost competitiveness among service providers, reflecting positively on the pilgrim's experience.
In terms of services for travelers, the Authority continued to support the "Traveler Without a Bag" service, which has benefited more than 2.4 million travelers in previous seasons, with more than 3.8 million bags transported through it across about 7,000 flights, helping ease travel procedures and reduce waiting times at airports.
The Authority also pays special attention to people with disabilities and the elderly through the "Accessible Transport" initiative at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, which provides a package of free services to ease arrival procedures and movement inside the airport, and offers integrated support aids to ensure a comfortable and safe travel experience.
The Authority stressed that these efforts are part of an integrated work system in coordination with the relevant authorities, reflecting the Kingdom's keenness to provide the best services to the Guests of Allah and enable them to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind, in line with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030 to raise the quality of services provided to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
To view the post on the Saudi Press Agency website, click here.
