First Flights from Bangladesh to Begin April 18
✨The long-awaited journey for Bangladeshi pilgrims is officially set to begin. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that the first Hajj flight for 2026 will depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) on Saturday, April 18.
This marks the commencement of a massive logistical operation. The goal is to transport over 78,000 pilgrims to the holy lands of Makkah and Madinah.
Key Highlights Of The 2026 Hajj Flight Schedule
- Inaugural Flight: Scheduled for 12:20 AM on April 18, carrying 419 pilgrims to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
- Official Opening: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to formally inaugurate the flight operations at the airport. The event will take place at 11:30 PM on April 17.
- Total Pilgrims: A total of 78,500 Bangladeshis are performing Hajj this year. Where 4,565 under government management and 73,935 through private Hajj agencies.
- Airlines & Distribution: Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 50% of pilgrims (102 pre-Hajj flights). Saudia: 35% of pilgrims (75 pre-Hajj flights). Flynas: 15% of pilgrims (30 pre-Hajj flights).
Improved Facilities For 2026
This year, pilgrims have received a boost with a reduction in airfare. The government successfully negotiated a decrease of approximately Tk 5,000 to Tk 12,000 per ticket by withdrawing certain excise duties and optimizing costs. Additionally, the Makkah Route Initiative continues to operate at Dhaka airport. As a result, pilgrims can complete their Saudi immigration right here in Bangladesh, saving hours of waiting time in Jeddah.
