As the Hajj season approaches, the aviation industry gears up for one of its busiest times of the year. Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, draws millions of Muslims from around the globe. Coordinating the logistics for such a massive influx of pilgrims is a monumental task involving meticulous planning and execution.
ACW spoke with Priyantha Brito, Executive Director of Procurement and Special Projects at Aviation Services Management (ASM), to shed light on the preparations and challenges.
Brito emphasized the distinctive nature of Hajj operations. “Hajj operations are unique when you compare them to regular flight operations,” he explained.
“ASM plays a key role during the Hajj project and throughout Umrah services. We have been contracted by several major airlines, both within the region and internationally, to manage ground handling and global check-ins and to serve as a one-stop shop for various elements involved in Hajj flight operations.”
Managing the Flow: Hajj
Ground handling during Hajj involves several critical responsibilities. ASM acts as the ground handling coordinator, ensuring that all elements of flight operations run smoothly. This includes coordinating charter flights operated by various governments and private airlines.
“We are the ground handling coordinator, the global check-in coordinator, and the one-stop shop for many elements involved in Hajj flight operations, including government advanced passenger information services,” Brito noted.
While passenger handling is a major focus during Hajj, cargo operations are equally critical. ASM is responsible for managing the transport of essential supplies, personal belongings of pilgrims, and other cargo that supports the pilgrimage.
