A Hajj return flight carrying Indonesian pilgrims ended in tragedy on June 20, 2025, when two elderly passengers died mid-flight shortly before landing at Juanda International Airport (SUB) in Surabaya.
The pilgrims were returning aboard a Saudi Arabian Airlines (SV) flight as part of Group 29. Both were residents of Bangkalan, East Java, and died approximately one hour before arrival.
Flight Group 29, returning from the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, landed at Surabaya’s Juanda International Airport (SUB) at 04:50 AM local time. Onboard, two Bangkalan residents—Hj. Mukatin Wakimin Samin, 67, and Hj. Salimah Deman Sadih, 85, were confirmed dead before touchdown.
Officials from the Bangkalan Religious Affairs Office, including Hajj and Umrah Coordinator Arif Rochman, confirmed that both pilgrims passed away during the flight operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines (SV).
The cause of death was reported as sudden medical complications mid-air. “They passed away almost at the same time,” Rochman said.
The total Hajj group from Bangkalan consisted of 659 pilgrims, divided into Groups 29, 30, and 38. Groups 29 and 30 arrived home on Friday, while Group 38 is expected on Sunday.
In-Flight Medical Emergencies and Response
Anita Oktavia, the flight doctor for Group 29, stated that Hj. Mukatin was likely affected by high blood pressure, while Hj. Salimah reportedly suffered a heart attack. Both conditions were exacerbated by turbulent weather during the flight.
According to Anita, medical staff and fellow pilgrim doctors acted quickly once the call for assistance was made. “We tried to provide emergency support immediately. Hj. Mukatin was declared dead about 15 minutes after losing consciousness, and Hj. Salimah passed away five minutes later,” she said.
Salimah’s son, Adnan, mentioned that his mother had experienced dizziness and breathing difficulty before her condition worsened. Despite prompt aid, she could not be revived before the aircraft landed.
Source; aviationaz
