Saudi low-cost carrier Flynas has launched its largest-ever Hajj operation, targeting the transport of more than 147,000 pilgrims from 18 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe in a 33-day airlift for Hajj 2026. The airline is one of several carriers executing what amounts to the world's largest annual short-term air transport operation.

Scale of the Flynas Operation

Flynas will operate from four bases across Saudi Arabia - Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah - to bring pilgrims from 18 countries. The confirmed destinations include India, Morocco, Turkey, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Senegal, Algeria, Togo, Mauritania, Djibouti, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Niger, Bosnia, and Russia.

The 33-day first phase covers the inbound arrival of pilgrims ahead of the Hajj rites expected between May 25-30. A second phase will handle the return journey after Hajj concludes.

Flynas currently operates over 2,000 weekly flights across 150 routes to more than 80 destinations in 38 countries. During the Hajj season, a significant portion of this capacity is redirected to serve pilgrim routes.

Part of the Makkah Route Initiative

Flynas is participating in the Makkah Route Initiative, which allows pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration and customs procedures at their departure airports before flying. Combined with the smart baggage coding system that delivers luggage directly to pilgrim accommodation, this means passengers on Makkah Route flights can walk straight through on arrival and head to their hotels.

The initiative currently operates from airports in several participating countries including Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh - all of which are on the Flynas network.

The Broader Hajj Airlift

Flynas is one piece of a massive puzzle. Saudi Arabia has activated 3.1 million airline seats across 12,000 flights for Hajj 2026. Other carriers operating significant Hajj schedules include:

  • Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): The national carrier and the largest single operator of Hajj flights, with routes spanning dozens of countries
  • Flyadeal: Saudi Arabia's other low-cost carrier, handling domestic and regional pilgrim transport
  • Akasa Air: India's newest airline, operating Hajj charter flights for Indian pilgrims
  • KLM: Operating Hajj services from European destinations
  • Bangladesh Biman: Managing the transport of Bangladeshi pilgrims alongside Saudia and Flynas

Multiple national carriers from Muslim-majority countries also operate dedicated Hajj charter programmes, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Garuda Indonesia, and EgyptAir.

What Pilgrims Should Know

If you are flying with Flynas for Hajj, your ticket and schedule will have been arranged through your Hajj operator or national Hajj authority. Key points to note:

  • Flights operate from four Saudi airports - confirm which one you are arriving at and departing from, as they may differ
  • If your flight is part of the Makkah Route Initiative, you will complete immigration at your departure airport - arrive early and have all documents ready
  • Flynas operates as a low-cost carrier - check your luggage allowance with your operator and pack accordingly
  • Return flights after Hajj will be during the busiest period - expect crowded airports and potential delays. Carry patience as well as your passport.