Hajj and Umrah Officials Monitor Flight Disruptions from Anak Krakatau Ash

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is monitoring flight disruptions at Soekarno‑Hatta Airport caused by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. The ministry is coordinating with airport operators, airlines, and Umrah travel organizers to ensure Umrah pilgrims' safety and well‑being.

On Monday, September 7, 2026, a total of 55 international and Umrah flights served approximately 13,549 passengers at Soekarno‑Hatta Airport, including 3,450 Umrah pilgrims.

“Most flights were on hold due to volcanic ash. Flights operated by Saudia Airlines, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Scoot, Emirates, and Oman Air were affected,” said Director General of Hajj and Umrah Organization Guidance, Puji Raharjo, in a press statement on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

The disruptions further strained Umrah flight operations, which had already declined since Sunday, September 6. On that day, only two departing flights operated, with no arrivals, carrying 749 passengers, including 449 Umrah pilgrims.

Since July 1, 2026, a total of 1,538 Umrah flights have passed through Terminals 2F and 3 at Soekarno‑Hatta Airport, comprising 758 departures and 780 arrivals, with total passenger movement reaching 486,629.

“Umrah pilgrims totaled 180,726, or around 37.14 percent of all international passengers. The peak reached 4,542 pilgrims on July 15, with the highest daily frequency at 39 flights,” he said.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed all Umrah travel agencies and associations to provide clear information to pilgrims and their families during flight disruptions. This ensures pilgrims understand the situation and receive service assurances while awaiting departure to Mecca, the Holy Land.

“We urge travel agencies to immediately provide lodging and meals for pilgrims stranded at the airport. Agencies must also delay departures from home regions until authorities officially reopen the airspace,” he emphasized.

In coordination with airlines, the ministry is ensuring that rescheduling and alternative routes can be arranged without burdening affected Umrah pilgrims. Information service posts have also been set up in airport terminals to monitor developments and provide the latest updates to pilgrims.

He expressed hope that continued coordination will maintain service quality despite disruptions caused by volcanic ash. Pilgrims are advised to follow official information and prioritize safety while awaiting updated flight schedules from relevant airlines. (Misni Parjiati)