Srinagar, June 1, 2026 : Authorities have announced temporary changes to check-in baggage arrangements for Haj pilgrims returning to the Srinagar Embarkation Point due to operational restrictions at Srinagar International Airport arising from ongoing runway maintenance work.
According to the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs, the revised baggage policy has been introduced following a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued for Srinagar Airport, which has resulted in temporary runway length restrictions and payload limitations on aircraft operations.
Modified Travel Plan Via Ahmedabad
Under the revised arrangement, Haj pilgrims travelling on return flights operated by Akasa Air to Srinagar will first travel via Ahmedabad.
Pilgrims will be permitted to carry 35 kilograms of check-in baggage on the international sector up to Ahmedabad. However, due to aircraft payload restrictions on the Ahmedabad–Srinagar sector, only 5 kilograms of check-in baggage per pilgrim will be allowed on the connecting flight to Srinagar.
The remaining 30 kilograms of baggage will be transported separately by road and delivered to Srinagar.
Officials clarified that there is no change in the cabin baggage allowance, and pilgrims can continue carrying their hand luggage as per existing guidelines.
Safety Measures Behind The Decision
The Ministry stated that the temporary restrictions have been imposed solely due to aviation safety requirements and operational limitations caused by runway maintenance work at Srinagar Airport.
“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,” the Ministry said in an official statement.
Authorities emphasized that the decision is purely operational and has no connection with any other administrative or logistical concerns.
Coordination Underway For Smooth Return
The Ministry of Minority Affairs, the Haj Committee of India and the Jammu & Kashmir State Haj Committee are working closely with airlines, airport authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that the return journey of pilgrims remains smooth, safe and hassle-free.
Officials said every effort is being made to maintain the dignity and convenience of pilgrims while complying with aviation safety norms.
“The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Haj Committee of India and J&K State Haj Committee are in constant coordination with all stakeholders to ensure the safe, smooth and dignified return of pilgrims,” the statement said.
Safety Remains Top Priority
Reiterating its commitment to passenger safety, the Ministry stressed that operational decisions have been taken in the best interests of pilgrims and flight operations.
“Safety cannot be compromised, and all decisions have been taken in the best interests of the pilgrims,” the Ministry added.
The temporary baggage arrangement will remain in effect for returning Haj flights until runway maintenance work and associated operational restrictions at Srinagar Airport are lifted.
