Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways is operating extra flights to Saudi Arabia to accommodate the growing demand by pilgrims travelling for Haj, the airline said on Tuesday.
To date, the airline has recorded a 17 per cent spike in bookings over last year.
Through until August 28, Etihad will operate special charters to carry pilgrims on its additional flights to Jeddah and Madinah airports.
All flights will operate alongside regular scheduled services, the airline said.
The top inbound destinations for the Haj Etihad flights are the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Pakistan, Indonesia, Korea, and Nigeria.
Hareb Mubarak Al Muhairi, Etihad Airways’ senior vice-president, said: “The Haj pilgrimage is a very important experience for Muslims around the world and Etihad is proud to help its customers make this significant journey.
“This year we see a 17 per cent increase in the number of pilgrims travelling with Etihad compared to the same period last year. To meet this increasing demand, Etihad Airways is adding 16 flights alongside our scheduled services to Jeddah and Madinah,” Al Muhair said.
“We are committed to providing a memorable Haj travel experience for our customers and to helping them complete their journey with ease and peace of mind.”
To handle the influx of additional passengers, check-in counters have been set up at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Extra provisions will also be made by cabin crew to meet pilgrims’ needs and requirements and to facilitate the performing of ablutions, advising them about the entry into Al Miqat (state of sanctity), and the changing into Ihram robes.
Pilgrims will also be able to tune in to the Etihad E-Box in-flight entertainment system’s dedicated Holy Quran channel, or to view the direction of the Qibla.
On return flights from both cities, Etihad Airways will permit Haj pilgrims to carry a five-litre container of Zamzam water free of charge, and will provide extra care for its handling.
