File photo

DHAKA, July 2, 2026 (BSS) - National flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines 
has successfully completed its 2026 Hajj operations, bringing back 34,464 
Bangladeshi pilgrims from Saudi Arabia while maintaining its regular 
international flight schedule without major disruptions.

According to a Biman press release, the airline operated 104 dedicated post-
Hajj return flights between May 30 and July 1, carrying 32,256 pilgrims 
safely back to Bangladesh.

In addition, another 2,208 pilgrims returned on 12 scheduled flights during 
the same period, taking the total number of returning pilgrims to 34,464.

The airline said its overall Hajj operations, conducted from April 18 to July 
1, were completed successfully through its own operational capacity and 
efficient management, demonstrating Biman's ability to handle large-scale 
international operations.

As part of the 2026 Hajj programme, Biman operated 36 dedicated chartered 
flights alongside 168 scheduled flights, allowing it to transport more than 
1,300 tonnes of additional cargo while carrying nearly 23,500 regular 
passengers without disrupting its commercial network.

The airline said it continued scheduled services on key international and 
regional routes, including London, Kuala Lumpur and destinations in the 
Middle East, throughout the Hajj season without major flight cancellations or 
significant schedule disruptions.

Besides transporting its own Hajj passengers, Biman also provided ground 
handling and passenger services for Saudia and Flynas at Hazrat Shahjalal 
International Airport during the Hajj season.

According to the airline, the successful completion of the large-scale 
operation was made possible through the dedication, efficient coordination 
and careful planning of more than 1,000 officials and employees under the 
close supervision of the airline's management.

Biman said long-standing Hajj season challenges, including prolonged flight 
delays and baggage congestion, were largely absent this year due to 
coordinated operational efforts.

The airline expressed gratitude to Hajj pilgrims, partner organisations and 
other stakeholders for their cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to 
ensuring safer, more punctual and improved services in the future.