Garuda Prepares for the Return of Hajj Pilgrims, with the Elderly as a Priority

Makkah — Garuda Indonesia has confirmed its readiness to repatriate Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from Saudi Arabia. The state-owned airline says it will prioritise services for the elderly and punctual flight schedules. General Manager Garuda Indonesia Jeddah, Nano Setiawan, said that the final stage of the return process had been prepared. He noted that the smooth arrival phase would underpin a more mature and organised return timetable. ‘We would like to thank you for the smooth process of the pilgrims' arrival. This is the result of good coordination and communication from all parties. Regarding the return, we are very much ready,’ Nano told reporters at the Hajj Affairs Office (KUH) in Jeddah on Friday (22 May 2026).

The service for the elderly has been prepared since pilgrims are outside the airport area. ‘The service for the elderly is a priority for us. We fully understand that 21 percent of pilgrims are elderly, so their services must be enhanced,’ he said.

Garuda Indonesia will deploy staff and two units of dedicated service to assist elderly pilgrims. The staff will conduct a sweep or temporarily take charge of the cabin baggage belonging to elderly pilgrims. The aim is to ensure the elderly can move comfortably from the tarmac to the immigration post. ‘The aim is to make the elderly more comfortable and not fatigued during the process at the airport,’ he explained.

Punctuality is regarded as important to maintaining safety and comfort for pilgrims. Therefore, pilgrims are asked to comply with baggage rules. Maximum checked luggage weight is 32 kilograms. Carry-on baggage is limited to 7 kilograms, plus one passport bag.