Saturday, 02 May 2026
BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Aceh Provincial Government has built Indonesia's first comprehensive Hajj and Umrah manasik facility featuring a full-scale Boeing 737 aircraft simulation at the Aceh Hajj Dormitory. The facility is designed to provide pilgrims with a realistic experience of air travel and to enhance their readiness before embarking on the sacred journey to the Holy Land.
The aircraft simulation allows pilgrims to experience the entire flight process, from entering the cabin to understanding in-flight safety procedures. The initiative primarily targets elderly pilgrims and those who have never traveled by plane, helping them perform their religious obligations with greater confidence and peace of mind.
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Aceh Vice Governor, Fadhlullah, inspected the construction progress of the Boeing 737 simulation on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Strengthening Pilgrim Readiness Through Realistic Training
During the visit, Fadhlullah emphasized that the facility would significantly improve the quality of pilgrim preparation. By familiarizing themselves with the aircraft cabin environment and flight procedures, pilgrims can better understand the overall journey—from departure at the Hajj dormitory to arrival at the destination airport.
"The pilgrims will experience a complete and integrated process. From manasik training, X-ray screening, and passport clearance at the Hajj dormitory, they will then travel directly by bus to the aircraft," Fadhlullah said.
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"This system allows Umrah pilgrims from Aceh to follow procedures similar to those of Hajj pilgrims."
He added that the integrated service system is expected to save time and improve comfort, particularly for elderly pilgrims.
A Project with Historical Significance
Fadhlullah also highlighted the historical value of the project, noting Aceh's contribution to Indonesia's aviation history through the dedication of earlier generations. The new simulation facility reflects that legacy while adapting to modern needs in pilgrim services.
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Support from Central Government and Garuda Indonesia
The vice governor expressed his appreciation to President Prabowo Subianto for the central government's attention and support toward Aceh. According to him, this support has played a vital role in improving Hajj and Umrah services across the province.
Garuda Indonesia's Regional Director for Aceh, Nano Setiawan, said the aircraft simulation would also function as an educational tool for Umrah pilgrims. He encouraged pilgrims to take full advantage of the increasingly modern and representative facilities at the Aceh Hajj Dormitory.
"We hope pilgrims will use this facility so they feel more comfortable and well prepared before departure," Nano said.
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Boosting Local Economic Activity
Beyond its religious and educational functions, the Aceh Provincial Government sees the Boeing 737 simulation as a new attraction that could stimulate local economic activity around the Hajj Dormitory area, generating additional visits and supporting surrounding businesses.
The inspection was attended by Vice Governor Fadhlullah, Garuda Indonesia Aceh Regional Director Nano Setiawan, Head of the Aceh Hajj Dormitory UPT Irsyadi, and PT Naka Avia Sakti representative Sukandar. (IDNC)
