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DHAKA, April 18, 2026 (BSS) - A total of 5,613 Hajj pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia today from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport through 14 flights.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines carried 2,464 pilgrims on six flights, while 1,536 pilgrims travelled on four flights operated by Saudia. In addition, Flynas transported 1,618 pilgrims through four flights, officials said.

According to the Hajj management office, of the total pilgrims, 3,939 are travelling under private management, while 1,674 are under government arrangements.

Officials said three Flynas flights were still in the process of boarding and check-in at the airport.

The Hajj management office also said that the pre-Hajj flight operation will continue until May 21. In total, 207 pre-Hajj flights are scheduled this year, including 102 by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, 75 by Saudia, and 30 by Flynas.

Bangladesh, one of the largest Hajj-sending countries globally, is expected to send around 78,500 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year. Of them, 4,565 will perform Hajj under government management, while 73,935 will travel under private agencies.

Officials added that about 50 percent of the pilgrims will travel by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, while the rest will be carried by Saudia and Flynas.

Subject to moon sighting, the holy Hajj is expected to be held on May 26, 2026.

Return flights are scheduled to begin on May 30 after completion of the Hajj rituals and will continue until July 1.