60,513 hajj pilgrims return home

A total of 60,513 Bangladeshi pilgrims returned home after performing the holy Hajj since June 10, as three airlines, including Bangladesh Biman, were engaged to fly them back home.

According to official data of the hajj office, of the total so far returned pilgrims, 5,007 travelled under the government management scheme while 55,506 returned under private arrangements.

The Hajj office sources said Biman Bangladesh Airlines has so far transported 26,767 pilgrims, while Saudi national carrier Saudia Airlines has brought 24,970 pilgrims back, and 8,776 have returned via Saudi-based Flynas Airlines.

In total, 160 return flights have been operated— 71 flights by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, 66 by Saudia Airlines, and 23 by Flynas Airlines.

This year, 38 Bangladeshi pilgrims have passed away in Saudi Arabia—27 males and 11 females.

The return phase commenced on June 10 and will continue until July 10.