Srinagar airport restrictions force Ahmedabad stopover, baggage curbs for returning Hajj pilgrims
New Delhi, June 1
Due to a NOTAM issued for Srinagar Airport and ongoing runway maintenance resulting in temporary runway length restrictions, payload limitations have been imposed on aircraft operations in the interest of flight safety, according to the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
To avoid disruption to Hajj flight schedules and minimise inconvenience to pilgrims, the return journey of Hajj pilgrims operated by Akasa Airlines to the Srinagar Embarkation Point has been planned via Ahmedabad with 35 kg check-in baggage allowance up to Ahmedabad.
Thereafter, 5 kg check-in baggage per pilgrim will be carried on the Ahmedabad-Srinagar flight, while the remaining 30 kg baggage will be transported separately by road to Srinagar. There is no change in the cabin baggage allowance.
These arrangements have been necessitated solely by airport operational constraints and aviation safety requirements. The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Hajj Committee of India and J&K State Hajj Committee are in constant coordination with all stakeholders to ensure the safe, smooth and dignified return of pilgrims.
Safety cannot be compromised, and all decisions have been taken in the best interests of the pilgrims, the ministry stated.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, an Akasa Air flight operating from Bengaluru to Bhubaneswar was diverted to Lucknow on Wednesday due to adverse weather conditions that were not suitable for landing, and later landed safely at its destination.
According to an Akasa Air spokesperson, the flight followed all standard safety protocols during the diversion.
"Akasa Air flight QP 1503 operating from Bengaluru to Bhubaneswar on 27 May 2026 was diverted to Lucknow due to adverse weather conditions, which were not favourable for landing. The pilot followed all established operational and safety protocols in line with standard procedures," the spokesperson said.
The airline further informed that the flight later resumed its journey and landed safely at its destination early the next day.
"The flight subsequently departed from Lucknow and landed safely in Bhubaneswar at 00:02 hrs on 28 May 2026," it added.
Emphasising passenger safety, the airline said the well-being of travellers and crew remains its top priority.
"At Akasa Air, the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority. We regret the inconvenience caused due to circumstances beyond our control and appreciate our passengers' understanding," the spokesperson said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Minimal disruption? Tell that to the elderly uncle who has to carry 5kg of luggage through multiple flights while his main baggage goes by road. 😤 This is typical bureaucratic planning. Why wasn't the runway maintenance scheduled after the Hajj season? The J&K State Hajj Committee should have been proactive. Akasa Air is just following orders, but someone dropped the ball here. 🙄
Yes, safety cannot be compromised, but the timing is terrible. These returning pilgrims are old and tired. Imagine telling a 70-year-old that his suitcases will reach Srinagar by road while he takes a flight with just 5kg! The government and Akasa should have arranged direct charter flights or coordinated with another airport. The Bengaluru-Bhubaneswar diversion mentioned is irrelevant to this Hajj matter. Focus on the real issue!
As Kashmiris, we understand logistical challenges, but this feels half-hearted. Why can't Akasa Air operate a direct flight from Jeddah to Ahmedabad and then to Srinagar with full baggage? The road transport for 30kg baggage is risky and unreliable in summer. Plus, pilgrims need their belongings immediately for comfort. The Ministry of Minority Affairs needs to take practical responsibility, not just issue statements. 🙏
At least they arranged alternative transport. 30kg by road from Ahmedabad to Srinagar is a long journey, but our truck drivers are resilient. The 5kg cabin limit is impractical for elderly pilgrims who may need medicines, extra clothes, or prayer items. The government should have provided at least 15kg check-in baggage allowance on the final leg. Safety first, but basic human needs matter too. 🕋
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.