The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has attributed the slow pace of the inbound flights of Nigerian pilgrims back home to the surge in the demand for airport slots.

The commission stated that all the countries requested the slots because they wanted to return their pilgrims simultaneously. NAHCON disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

According to NAHCON, Nigeria has not been allocated as many slots as needed to move its large number of pilgrims quickly.

“In view of this, the three major stakeholders in the airlift operation have mapped out strategies to increase the number of slots to the country. It is hoped that active discussions with the Saudi authorities will facilitate an increase in the flight slots.

“FlyNas is the only airline presently running two flights per day. NAHCON’s plan is to seek more convenient slots for UMZA  Aviation, Air Peace and Max Air,” said the statement.

It added, “With large-bodied aircraft, the pace of the return journey will increase significantly, and more flights will be scheduled daily.

“NAHCON appreciates patience of the pilgrims and their officials and  assure all concerned that the commission and the state boards are working round the clock to ensure a quicker return trip for everyone.”

The statement said the commission planned to return all the pilgrims home on June 28, vowing that it was determined to redeem its pledge. 

(NAN)