The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has engaged Saudi Arabian Airlines on operational coordination, passenger-service improvements and preparations for the 2027 Hajj airlift.
Speaking at the meeting held at the NCAA Headquarters in Abuja, on Wednesday, 21st October, 2026, the Director-General Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, congratulated Saudi Arabian Airlines on its selection as one of the designated carriers for the 2027 Hajj airlift by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The DGCA, represented by the Director, Operations, Licensing and Training Standards (DOLTS), Capt. Donald Spiff, acknowledged the airline’s age-long contribution to Nigeria’s pilgrimage air transport market, noting that it accounted for approximately 74 per cent of Nigerian Umrah pilgrims transported during the 2025-2026 season – with the preliminary figures presented indicating a market share of nearly 100 per cent in the current season.
While reaffirming NCAA’s deep commitment to providing regulatory guidance and support to airlines operating in Nigeria, he underscored the importance of sustained engagement in promoting operational efficiency and mutually beneficial relations.
Also speaking, the Director, Air Transport Regulation (DATR), Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe, welcomed the delegation and expressed satisfaction that the meeting had provided an opportunity to share information and close up communication gaps between the NCAA and Saudi Arabian Airlines.
She highlighted the benefits of the DATR’s E-Portal, and enjoined Saudi Arabian Airlines to onboard the platform without further delay.
In his contribution, the Director, Aerodrome & Airspace Standards, Alh. Ahmad Abba, mni, gave a brief summary of Capt. Najomo’s remarks, and urged the team to begin earnest preparations for the 2027 Hajj operations, noting that airport preparations in Kano differ from those in Abuja and Lagos.
Addressing consumer-related concerns, the General Manager, Planning & Enforcement, Directorate of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Mrs. Chichi Daniels, highlighted the importance of effective communication in managing passenger complaints, particularly those relating to delayed baggage, applicable compensation and the provision of care and assistance during flight disruptions.
She, therefore, tasked the airline to designate a customer-service manager who will serve as a dedicated contact to streamline communication and facilitate more efficient handling of passenger concerns in line with Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023.
Responding, the airline’s Regional Manager, Mr. Abdallah Abuleid, welcomed the feedback from the NCAA, and acknowledged the importance of improved communication channels and information sharing towards addressing outstanding matters and strengthening the mutual working relationship between them
In closing, both parties expressed commitment to sustained engagement, improved communication and continued cooperation towards ensuring safe, efficient and passenger-friendly air transport services between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
