Business | Aviation

Sama Airlines hopes to fly Haj pilgrims

Sama Airlines, the newest low-fare carrier in Saudi Arabia, has signed contracts to carry more than 30,000 Haj pilgrims.

  • Staff Report
  • Published: 23:15 November 25, 2008
  • Gulf News

Dubai: Sama Airlines, the newest low-fare carrier in Saudi Arabia, has signed contracts to carry more than 30,000 Haj pilgrims.

The announcement came after the General Authority for Civil Aviation recognised the airline as an official carrier for the Haj this year. The airline has temporarily increased its fleet from six to 15 aircraft to fly the pilgrims.

Extra capacity

Samer Atawi, chief commercial officer of Sama, said: "Sama's preparation for the Haj season started early. We added nine aircraft to our fleet especially to carry the pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, giving us an extra seat capacity of more than 2,000 seats per day.

"Sama has signed several contracts in [the] UAE, Jordan, Afghanistan and Nigeria. These agreements are very important and a big step forward for Sama as it seeks to contribute to the Saudi government's support for the Haj season. All our efforts are aimed at ensuring a smooth and successful Haj, particularly for those performing the Haj for the first time," he said.

Sama's Haj initiative is part of its "Just for You" customer initiative and follows the launch of Mumbai as its newest destination. The network now covers the UAE, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and India.

Atawi said: "Because of our exceptional and early preparation, Sama has become the preferred choice for many companies assisting Haj and Umrah pilgrims. Sama offers the lowest fares and simpler travel procedures and bookings, making travel for pilgrims, easier and more affordable."

The airline's network now covers the UAE, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and India.

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