It has been a yearly mission of Saudi Arabian Airlines to work hand in hand with The Office on Muslim Affairs (OMA) in bridging our Muslim brothers and sisters to fulfill their Fifth Fundamental of Islam, the Hajj pilgrimage. Six SV staff (for ticketing and visa issuance), and one supervisor were assigned in handling Hajj flights. From the pre-hajj preparations, to the actual operations, down to the post activity report, the Hajj team worked together towards the success of the movement. For the year 2008, I had the privilege to be chosen as one of the members of the Hajj team, together with Mr. Art Nieto, Ms. Corit Ramirez, Ms. Paula Castro, Ms. Kristine Barongan, Mr. Asnawi Marohombsar, and Mr. Lorenz Joson.

THE PREPARATION

As early as January 18 of 2008, seats were already requested by Ms. Victoria Pajarillaga with the supervision of Ms. Annie Valdes. OMA’s initial requirement was 5,100 seats, and was eventually decreased to 4,500. Blocking of seats was based on the availability in the system, and even though seats were quite limited, SV achieved 3,756 seats for OMA, including advance party and First class. Hajj fares for Manila-Jeddah-Manila authorized by SV Head Office (JEDQTSV) were $1,544 for adult, $1,194 for child, and $150 for infant including international taxes. To help OMA in securing necessary documents for the movement, three Travel Agencies namely, Travel Plaza Inc., Manila International Travel, and Elite Travel Center were appointed. Tedious revisions and consultations with the Country Manager, Mr. Abdullah Alazhari and Asst. Manager for CTO Reservation Ms. Annie Valdes were made to maximize seat blockings to meet OMA’s seat requirement. Several meetings with OMA and Airport Services were made to assure smooth Hajj Operations.

THE OPERATIONS

One of the main reasons why handling Hajj movement does not excite SV agents is the extended working hours, but unlike the previous years, our team went home 5.30 in the afternoon on the dot most of the time. Documents arrived in time for ticket issuance and visa filing for the initial flights. Delayed submission of names/documents were still encountered though resulting to cancellation of a number of confirmed seats. With the assistance of Mr. Alazhari, some seats were reinstated. Minimal visa cancellation was noted. Hajj ticketing went smoothly, flight manifests were submitted on time. From Jeddah operations (JEDYSSV / JEDQTSV), SV Sales, Manila Airport Services, TWASP Finance, TWASP MIS, to TWASP HRD… these departments really worked together to accomplish one single goal.

THE OUTCOME

Because of the well coordinated performance of involved departments and continuous support from the Country Manager, number of confirmed seats achieved was 3,914 and the number of boarded passengers totaled to 3,892. I can really say that it was a great learning experience for me, and for the rest of the Hajj team members. Working with a team in achieving one goal can really be a tough responsibility, but after seeing the outcome, you can really say that it was all worth it. Though not perfect, Hajj Movement 2008 was a success.