Makassar Hajj Departure Point Prepares Jet Bridge for Evening Pilgrim Arrival

Makassar (ANTARA) – Hajj Departure Point (Debarkasi) officials in Makassar, South Sulawesi, have prepared a jet bridge to welcome the first group of Indonesian pilgrims returning from Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

South Sulawesi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) Regional Office Head Ikbal Ismail stated on Monday that the first group (kloter 01) is scheduled to depart Jeddah at 3:00 AM Saudi time (WAS) and arrive at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport in Maros, Makassar, on Monday (1/6) around 10:30 PM WITA.

“We are prepared to receive Indonesian pilgrims, currently scheduled for around 10:30 PM WITA, hopefully on time,” he said.

Ismail noted this year’s arrival process includes enhanced services for pilgrims. For the first time, Makassar Hajj Departure Point pilgrims will disembark via jet bridge, replacing the previous method of using aircraft stairs on the apron.

He explained that the jet bridge is part of efforts to improve service quality and passenger comfort upon arrival in Indonesia.

“For elderly pilgrims and wheelchair users, the Hajj Service Team (PPIH) has arranged special services including lift access and officer escort to Makassar Hajj Assembly Hall,” he added.

Reception and repatriation procedures will follow previous years’ protocols.

After formal reception at Arafah Hall in Makassar Hajj Assembly Hall, pilgrims will be handed over to respective regency and city governments for return to their home regions.

He also reminded pilgrims not to carry Zamzam water in checked luggage, as its presence could trigger additional inspections and require baggage to be unpacked by officials.

“Each pilgrim has been allocated five litres of Zamzam water, which will be distributed through official channels. Therefore, we urge pilgrims not to bring Zamzam water in their checked luggage,” he said.