Air India to sort out Hajis’ baggage backlog issue soon

National carrier Air India will notify a detailed schedule indicating a datewise...

National carrier Air India will notify a detailed schedule indicating a datewise and destination-wise plan for delivery of the baggage and Zam Zam water, including the backlog of Haj pilgrims, within 24 hours.

The decision was taken following a detailed review of Haj operations by Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel and Haj Committee of India (HCI) Chairman Iqbal Ahmed Saradgi. The meeting was held amidst concerns over delays in the arrival of flights carrying Hajis on their return journey from Saudi Arabia and delays in the delivery of their baggage. Taking stock of the ongoing second phase of Haj operations, the meeting took note over the concerns and also constraints in carrying the Zam Zam water.

Air India has been asked to furnish its plan to address these issues to the Civil Aviation Ministry and the HCI. The details would be displayed at all disembarkation points for the Haj pilgrims.

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Further, the ministry will coordinate with the Saudi Arabian Airlines to facilitate the drawing up of a similar plan for delivery of baggage and Zam Zam water. The Consulate General of India at Jeddah would also be requested to facilitate the transportation of the remaining Haj pilgrims along with their baggage.

Patel also suggested that certain remedial measures should be taken to ensure that future Haj operations were smooth and orderly. One such measure decided upon was that Air India should go in for a long-term lease of wide-bodied aircraft with a view to ensuring timely availability of the suitable aircraft as well as to bring down the cost of operations.