NCAA Engages Airlines To Ensure Smooth 2026 Hajj Operations

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has intensified preparations for the 2026 airlift of pilgrims by holding a strategic engagement with selected domestic airlines to ensure a smooth, efficient, and well-coordinated operation.

The meeting, which took place in Abuja on Monday, brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation and pilgrimage logistics chain. It is part of early planning measures designed to avoid operational bottlenecks and enhance service delivery during the upcoming Hajj season.

Speaking at the engagement, the Director-General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, said the Authority convened the meeting to review ongoing preparations and identify practical steps that would improve coordination among operators. He noted that the objective is to ensure efficiency in flight scheduling, strengthen collaboration between stakeholders, and enhance the overall experience of pilgrims travelling from Nigeria.

Najomo emphasized that early coordination remains critical to the success of Hajj airlift operations, particularly given the scale and sensitivity of transporting thousands of pilgrims within a limited operational window. He added that the NCAA remains committed to maintaining strict regulatory oversight while also facilitating seamless airline participation.

Key issues discussed at the meeting included the allocation of operational slots, flight scheduling procedures, and broader logistics management. Stakeholders also deliberated on the proposal to involve additional Saudi-based carriers in order to supplement the capacity of Nigerian airlines and improve flexibility in passenger movement.

After extensive deliberations, participants reached a resolution that slot approvals would be granted strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. According to the NCAA, this decision is aimed at encouraging early preparation, timely documentation, and improved coordination among all participating airlines.

The Authority further stressed that adherence to timelines would be crucial in avoiding last-minute disruptions and ensuring fairness in the allocation process.
Airlines present at the engagement included Air Peace, Umza Aviation, and Max Air, alongside other industry operators involved in Hajj airlift logistics. Representatives reportedly expressed their readiness to work closely with the NCAA and other relevant agencies to ensure the success of the 2026 pilgrimage operations.

The engagement is one of several preparatory steps being taken by the NCAA as part of its broader mandate to ensure safe, orderly, and efficient air transport operations during peak pilgrimage periods.