Hajj Flight Costs Reach Rp1.77 Trillion, Government Assures No Burden on Pilgrims

The government has ensured that the increase in Hajj flight costs for 2026 will not be imposed on pilgrims. Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Menhaj) Moch. Irfan Yusuf explained that the rise in avtur prices and fluctuations in exchange rates are placing significant pressure on this year’s Hajj flight financing structure. He stated that Garuda Indonesia has proposed an increase of up to Rp974.8 billion, while Saudi Airlines has proposed Rp802.8 billion. “In aggregate, the total cost has surged from Rp6.69 trillion to Rp8.46 trillion, an increase of Rp1.77 trillion,” Irfan said during a meeting with Commission VIII of the House of Representatives on Tuesday (14/4). He emphasised that President Prabowo has instructed that the flight cost increase should not be borne by the pilgrims. “Regarding the flight cost increase proposed by the airlines, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is currently coordinating with the Attorney General’s Office and relevant parties to ensure the force majeure status and the legality of the funding source,” he said. He explained that based on Law No. 14 of 2025 on the Implementation of Hajj and Umrah Worship, the flight cost component is sourced from the Hajj Worship Implementation Costs (BPIH). Meanwhile, the costs for kloter officials are covered by the State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN). “To accommodate the above conditions, we hope that at this working meeting with Commission VIII of the House of Representatives, the amount and source of funding to meet this cost adjustment can be approved and decided. The figures are there, with a total shortfall required of Rp1.77 trillion,” he stated.