GACA WARNS AIRLINES AGAINST VIOLATING RULES DURING HAJ SEASON

MECCA, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- The General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) of
Saudi Arabia has warned airlines against violating its rules defining services
during the Haj season.

The Saudi Gazette Sunday quoted the authority as saying that it would take very
tough action against offenders.

The authority said one of the most significant requirements was that airlines
involved in Haj services must provide the Authority SR600,000 (US$1=SR3.750) in
bank guarantee.

According to the report, if airlines did not fly pilgrims and their luggage to
their home countries, the Authority reserved the right to deduct the cost of the
tickets and luggage fees from the bank guarantee.

It said the Authority would also fine carriers SR100,000 if they transported
pilgrims after the deadline set for their arrival and SR10,000 if their aircraft
left the Kingdom without a departure permit.

Fines of SR20,000 to SR50,000 will also be levied against any Haj carriers that
do not meet deadlines for providing passenger flight manifests and it is also
mandatory for pilgrims with jewels or cash exceeding SR60,000 to declare it on
the customs form.

The Authority said pilgrim arrivals began on Oct 9, and will end on Nov 11 while
return trips start on Nov 21 and end on Dec 21.