First Hajj flight from Chattogram departs with 371 pilgrims
Biman officials said around 6,000 pilgrims from Chattogram have registered for Hajj this year.
The first Hajj flight of the season from Chattogram departed early today (20 April), carrying 371 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
The flight, operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, left Shah Amanat International Airport at 6:52pm, bound for Jeddah. It also carried 41 pilgrims from Dhaka and two general passengers.
A send-off event was attended by State Minister for Land and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin as the chief guest.
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The special guest was Chattogram airport Director Group Captain Shaikh Abdullah Alamgir.
Officials from the airport, the airline, the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAB), and the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) were also present.
Addressing the gathering, the state minister emphasised national unity and urged pilgrims to pray for the country and global peace.
He specifically called for prayers to end ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and restore stability worldwide.
He also sought prayers for Bangladesh's progress towards a more inclusive and prosperous state.
The state minister later reviewed overall Hajj management arrangements at the airport and thanked authorities for their preparations.
Helal noted that the government is considering expanding the airport terminal to better handle growing passenger demand.
Director Alamgir said a high-level Hajj management committee has been formed to ensure smooth travel for pilgrims.
The committee will oversee all stages, from airport entry to boarding, in coordination with airlines and other stakeholders.
As Chattogram lacks a dedicated Hajj camp like Dhaka, a temporary facility has been set up at the airport's central mosque premises, the director said.
It includes seating arrangements, access to drinking water and fans, along with on-site medical support for unwell pilgrims. Volunteers are also assisting with guidance and logistics.
Biman officials said around 6,000 pilgrims from Chattogram have registered for Hajj this year.
A total of 16 flights are scheduled between 19 April and 20 May to transport them.
