Hajj Flight Delays Spark Concern for Returning Indonesian Pilgrims

Jakarta – The initial wave of Indonesian pilgrims returning from the Hajj pilgrimage is underway, but flight delays have quickly become a major point of concern. as thousands of pilgrims transit through airports in Medina and Jeddah, reports of significant disruptions are prompting calls for immediate action to improve the repatriation process.

Parliamentary Oversight Team Voices Concerns Over Hajj Flight Disruptions

Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal,Chairman of the indonesian Parliament Hajj Supervisory Team (Timwas),has expressed serious concerns regarding the flight delays impacting Indonesian pilgrims returning home. The delays, primarily affecting flights operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines at King Abdul Aziz International airport in Jeddah, have left pilgrims stranded for hours.

Did You Know? In 2024, over 221,000 Indonesian pilgrims participated in the Hajj, making it the largest contingent globally. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is responsible for managing the logistics of this massive undertaking.

“We are only at the begining of the repatriation phase, and already there are problems,” Cucun stated on Thursday, June 12, 2025, while visiting pilgrims in Makkah. “The delays caused by Saudi Arabian Airlines are unacceptable. It is indeed possible that Garuda airline will face similar issues.”

Lack of Support for Delayed Pilgrims

Adding to the concern is the reported lack of adequate support for pilgrims experiencing these delays. Some pilgrims have allegedly waited up to six hours at the airport without receiving assistance from the Hajj Organizing Officer (PPIH). Cucun emphasized the critical need for the Jeddah Working Area hajj Organizing Committee (Daker) to be prepared for such contingencies.

“Pilgrims should not be neglected and left without food for hours,” Cucun insisted. “Kadaker Jeddah must have an emergency scenario in place to address such situations immediately.”

Pro Tip: pilgrims should confirm their flight status 24 hours before departure and pack essential medications and snacks in their carry-on luggage.

Call for improved Coordination

To ensure a smoother return process, Cucun stressed the importance of close coordination between PPIH transportation and the airlines. Effective communication is essential to minimize delays and ensure pilgrims can return home comfortably, safely, and on time.

“We must strive to eliminate these delays,” he added.”Stronger communication between PPIH and the airlines is crucial to ensure a cozy and timely return for our pilgrims.”

Return Flight Schedule

The repatriation of Indonesian pilgrims is scheduled to continue until the end of July, with flights departing from both Medina and Jeddah. The success of this operation hinges on the ability of organizers and airlines to address the current challenges and ensure a seamless return for all pilgrims.

What steps do you think are most crucial for improving the Hajj pilgrimage experience?

How can technology be better utilized to manage the logistics of such a large-scale event?

Share this article and join the conversation! What are your thoughts on improving the Hajj travel experience? Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates.