OGUN STATE — May 2026 — Hundreds of intending Hajj pilgrims from Ogun State have been left stranded following the reported refusal of Saudi airline Flynas to operate flight services from the newly constructed Gateway International Airport.
The development has sparked concern among pilgrims, travel officials, and aviation stakeholders, as preparations for airlifting pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia face uncertainty.
According to reports, the airline raised technical and operational concerns regarding the readiness of the airport to handle international Hajj flight operations.
The situation has affected scheduled travel plans for hundreds of pilgrims who were expected to depart from the Ogun State facility as part of the Hajj pilgrimage arrangements.
Officials say the airport, which was recently inaugurated to boost regional aviation capacity, may require additional certification or operational adjustments to meet international airline standards.
Pilgrims, many of whom had already completed documentation and medical requirements, were reportedly informed of the change at short notice, causing confusion and frustration.
Some travel operators are now exploring alternative departure routes through established international airports in Lagos and other neighbouring states.
Religious affairs authorities in the state have acknowledged the disruption and say efforts are ongoing to resolve the issue and ensure affected pilgrims are rescheduled for departure.
Aviation experts note that international airlines must comply with strict safety, navigation, and ground handling standards before operating from new airports.
They suggest that certification processes involving aviation regulatory bodies may still be ongoing for the Ogun airport, which could explain the airline’s decision.
The situation has also raised broader questions about infrastructure readiness and coordination between state projects and international aviation partners.
Stakeholders in the Hajj operations sector have called for urgent engagement between Ogun State authorities, aviation regulators, and the airline to resolve the impasse.
Officials say ensuring safe and compliant operations remains the priority, even if it requires temporary adjustments to travel plans.
Meanwhile, pilgrims have appealed for swift intervention to prevent further delays, noting the emotional and financial stress caused by the disruption.
Some affected individuals expressed concern that prolonged delays could affect their ability to participate in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
Government representatives are reportedly working with federal aviation authorities to assess the situation and identify possible solutions.
The incident highlights the complexities involved in launching new international aviation routes, particularly for high-demand religious travel operations.
Attention now shifts to whether the airline and Nigerian authorities can reach an agreement that will allow pilgrims to proceed with their journey without further disruption.
