US-Bangla Airlines has proposed operating Hajj flights for the 2027 pilgrimage season at a net airfare of Tk 98,000 per pilgrim, a move the government believes could help lower the overall cost of performing Hajj. The private carrier submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Religious Affairs expressing its willingness to operate Hajj flights for the 2027 season, subject to government approval.
Proposal Details
The proposed airfare is significantly lower than the Tk 154,830 charged per pilgrim during the 2026 Hajj season, when airfare accounted for a substantial portion of the overall Hajj package cost. Confirming receipt of the proposal, Religious Affairs Secretary Munshi Alauddin Al Azad said the offer has strengthened the government's position in negotiations aimed at reducing Hajj airfares.
Government Reaction
Azad said the government remains committed to reducing the cost of Hajj and welcomed greater competition in Hajj airfares. "We also want people to be able to perform Hajj at a lower cost. This proposal has become a positive factor for us in negotiations. The current government remains committed to reducing the cost of Hajj, and we are continuing our efforts to achieve that goal. Competition in Hajj airfares is a positive development," he said.
Industry Response
At present, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Saudi Arabia's national carrier Saudia and private Saudi airline flynas operate Hajj flights from Bangladesh during the annual pilgrimage season. Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) Secretary General Farid Ahmed Majumder said the association has consistently advocated for lower Hajj airfares and would discuss the proposal.
