First East Java Hajj Group Arrives in Indonesia, Performing Prostration in Gratitude on Airport Tarmac
The first flight group (Kloter) of East Javanese Hajj pilgrims for the 1447 H/2026 season officially landed at Juanda International Airport, Surabaya, on Monday night (1/6). The arrival of these hundreds of pilgrims was marked by acts of prostration in gratitude (sujud syukur) on the tarmac.
The first group, comprising pilgrims from Malang, Surabaya, and Proparte Probolinggo, arrived via Saudia Airlines flight SV 5124, carrying a total of 378 pilgrims. “Alhamdulillah, the first group has arrived safely, smoothly, and securely at Juanda Airport. On Wednesday (1/6), according to the schedule, there were four groups departing from King Abdul Aziz Airport in Jeddah, with a total of 1,517 pilgrims,” said the General Manager of Juanda International Airport, Muhammad Tohir.
Observing the arrival, the pilgrims, most of whom were wearing batik uniforms and white veils, appeared to disembark from the aircraft with visible emotion and joy. A poignant moment occurred when a male pilgrim, after disembarking from the bus, immediately performed a prostration on the airport asphalt, pressing his hands and forehead to the ground.
Airport officials subsequently directed the pilgrims towards the designated Hajj transport buses at the parking stand. Following the completion of the debarkation process, the pilgrims proceeded to the Hajj dormitory for a series of health and administrative checks before being permitted to return to their respective home regions.
The airport authorities estimate that they will serve a total of 116 flight groups during this year’s debarkation period, which is scheduled to conclude on 1 July 2026. “As airport managers, we have prepared thoroughly to ensure the smooth operation of Hajj flights for the 1446 H/2025 season, both in terms of human resources and supporting facilities and equipment,” said Tohir. Intensive coordination is also being maintained with various relevant agencies to ensure safe and smooth airport operations.
Laili, a pilgrim from Leces, Probolinggo, and a member of the first group, expressed her happiness at finally returning to Indonesia, noting her satisfaction with this year’s Hajj services. “Alhamdulillah, it has been extraordinary this year. I feel nothing was lacking, and I hope the quality of service is maintained in the future. We are quite satisfied; the food and everything else was very supportive, thank you,” said Laili.