The return journey for Haj pilgrims, operated by Akasa Airlines to the Srinagar Embarkation Point, will now take place via Ahmedabad, allowing for a check-in baggage limit of 35 kg up to Ahmedabad, as stated by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs.
“After that, each pilgrim will be permitted to check in 5 kg of baggage on the Ahmedabad-Srinagar flight, while the remaining 30 kg will be transported separately by road to Srinagar. The cabin baggage allowance remains unchanged,” the ministry noted in a post on X.
“Due to the NOTAM issued for Srinagar Airport and the ongoing runway maintenance causing temporary runway length restrictions, payload limitations have been implemented on aircraft operations to ensure flight safety,” it added.
These arrangements at Kashmir’s sole civilian airport have arisen solely from operational constraints and safety requirements in aviation, the ministry explained.
“The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Haj Committee of India, and J&K State Haj Committee are actively coordinating with all stakeholders to guarantee the safe, smooth, and dignified return of the pilgrims,” it emphasized. “Safety is paramount, and all decisions have been made in the best interest of the pilgrims.”
