Fewer flights, fewer pilgrims as Hajj operations from Ctg begin 19 April

Hajj flight operations from Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram are set to begin on 19 April, with fewer flights and pilgrims this year compared to 2025, officials and industry insiders said.

The first flight will depart in the afternoon for Jeddah, carrying 419 pilgrims on a Boeing 777 operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines. 

According to airport and airline sources, a total of 16 direct flights will be operated from Chattogram to Saudi Arabia this year, 12 to Jeddah and four to Madinah. All flights will be operated by the national flag carrier. Last year, the number stood at 17 flights.

Al Mamun Faruk, district manager of Biman in Chattogram, said preparations have been completed to ensure smooth operations.

"We are fully ready to operate the first Hajj flight on 19 April. A total of 419 passengers will travel on the inaugural flight to Jeddah. Coordination has been strengthened to ensure swift boarding, immigration and baggage handling," he said, adding that arrangements are also in place to formally inaugurate the flight.

"As the condition of the Middle East has been stable now due the ceasefire, we hope there will not be any disruption in the flight operation", he said. 

Airport authorities are also stepping up support services to handle the seasonal rush. Separate helpdesks, additional manpower, expedited immigration and medical assistance will be available for pilgrims. Special arrangements, including wheelchairs and dedicated staff, have been made for elderly passengers.

Around 6,000 pilgrims are expected to travel from Chattogram this year, lower than last year's figure 6237. Industry stakeholders attribute the decline to a reduced quota and other associated factors.

Shah Alam, former chairman of the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh, said both the number of flights and pilgrims have dropped, though bookings remain satisfactory so far.

"Overall, the situation is normal. Direct flights from Chattogram have made travel more comfortable for pilgrims," he added.

According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a total of 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh will perform Hajj in 2026 -- including 4,565 under government management and 73,935 under private arrangements.

In 2025, the total number was higher at 87,100 pilgrims, with 5,200 under government management and 81,900 under private arrangements.

Subject to moon sighting, Hajj is expected to be observed on 26 May. Authorities have scheduled flights to complete the transportation of pilgrims within the designated time frame. Official Hajj flight operations from Bangladesh will begin on 18 April from Dhaka, followed by Chattogram from 19 April.