Libya’s Afriqiyah Airways announced that it has operated two flights to Jeddah Airport, in order to bring pilgrims home.
The announcement by Afriqiyah Airways came hours after the circulation of pictures of Libyan pilgrims waiting at Jeddah airport to return to Libya.
150 Umrah pilgrims returned to Tobruk International Airport, via the OIA Air airline.
Last week, Libyan Airlines announced the start of return flights with pilgrims after performing Umrah rituals for this year through its planes.
The Libyan Hajj and Umrah Affairs Authority agreed with the Ministry of Transportation to form a coalition of local airlines to transport Libyan pilgrims, and to set timetables for departures and returns.
This came during a meeting between the Authority, the Minister of Transportation, Mohamed Al-Shahoubi, and representatives of local airlines.
According to the Authority, the meeting “discussed ways to provide the best services, that would ensure all means of comfort for pilgrims to Mecca.”
Sabri Al-Buaishi, the Deputy Head of the Authority said that Libya’s quota this year will be 7,800 pilgrims. He added that the authority will begin working to “complete the procedures for pilgrims, according to a specific timetable.”
He noted that the remaining numbers of the 2021 lottery will be added to the numbers of the 2022 draw that were conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to supplement Libya’s share in the pilgrimage.
This 2023 Hajj season is the first after COVID-19 restrictions were completely lifted. All ages will be allowed to perform Hajj, according to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs.
In January, the Authority signed an agreement with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj to make arrangements for the 2023 season.
The agreement was signed by Al-Buaishi, and Dr. Abdel Fattah Mashat, Deputy Minister of Hajj.
The agreement came on the sidelines of the Authority’s participation in the Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah.
It indicated that a meeting will be held between Al-Buaishi and the Saudi Minister of Hajj to strengthen bilateral relations, and ensure the provision of the best services to Libyan pilgrims.
