Ministry advises returning Hajj pilgrims to comply with flight rules

Medina (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has continued to monitoring the return of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia to ensure a safe, comfortable, and smooth travel, while advising them to comply with aviation rules.

Ministry spokesperson Ichsan Marsha said on Saturday in Medina that 59 flight groups carrying 23,129 pilgrims and 236 officers departed from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, bringing the total number of returning pilgrims and officers to 23,365.

Of the total, 56 groups with 21,948 pilgrims and 224 officers have already arrived in Indonesia, totaling 22,172 people.

Meanwhile, the return of special Hajj pilgrims has been ongoing, with 7,702 pilgrims and 368 officers having returned so far, bringing the total to 8,070 people.

During the return period, the ministry reminded pilgrims to prepare their belongings according to airline regulations and keep travel documents safe.

Passports, identity cards, personal medication, and other important documents must be stored securely and kept easily accessible.

“A passport is a very important travel document. Do not lose it. If it is lost, immediately report it to the group leader and Hajj officers so it can be handled according to procedure,” Marsha said.

The ministry also emphasized that each pilgrim is only allowed to carry a passport bag, one cabin bag with a maximum weight of 7 kilograms, and one checked baggage with a maximum weight of 32 kilograms.

To facilitate the return process, airlines have weighed luggage at pilgrims’ hotels two days before departure. After being weighed, checked baggage will undergo screening before being stored in airline warehouses until departure day.

Furthermore, the ministry reiterated that zamzam water is not allowed in either checked baggage or cabin luggage in any form.

Marsha added that pilgrims do not need to bring zamzam water themselves, as each pilgrim will receive a five-liter gallon upon arrival in Indonesia.

Related news: Indonesia to require military-style training for 2027 Hajj staff

Translator: Citro, Kenzu

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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