Two Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Die Mid-Flight Before Landing in Surabaya

TEMPO.CO, Bangkalan - The joyous atmosphere of welcoming home Hajj pilgrims in Bangkalan, East Java, turned somber on Friday, June 20, 2025, after reports emerged that two pilgrims from the area had died aboard the plane, just one hour before landing at Juanda International Airport in Surabaya.

The deceased were identified as Hj. Mukatin Wakimin Samin, 67, and Hj. Salimah Deman Sadih, 85—both residents of Burneh District and part of flight group 29, which arrived in Indonesia at 04:50 AM local time.

The Coordinator of Hajj and Umrah Affairs at the Bangkalan Religious Affairs Office, Arif Rochman, confirmed the deaths, stating they occurred mid-flight. "They passed away almost at the same time," he said.

This year, a total of 659 Hajj pilgrims from Bangkalan departed in three groups: 29, 30, and 38. Groups 29 and 30 returned on Friday, while Group 38 is expected to arrive Sunday.

Adnan, the youngest son of Salimah, said his mother had complained of dizziness and shortness of breath before she died. Despite receiving help from officers and fellow pilgrims, she could not be saved. "She passed away before the plane landed," he said.

Anita Oktavia, the flight doctor for group 29, said Hj. Mukatin was suspected to have died from high blood pressure, while Hj. Salimah likely suffered a heart attack.

"The weather conditions were not good and there was turbulence. When there was a call from the family because one of the pilgrims had lost consciousness, we immediately provided assistance with the help of other pilgrims who were also doctors. However, around 15 minutes later, Hj. Mukatin was declared dead, followed by Hj. Salimah five minutes later," she said.

Both bodies have been returned to their families in Burneh District, Bangkalan, East Java, for burial.

With these two deaths, the total number of Hajj-related fatalities from Bangkalan this year has reached four: one before departure, one during the pilgrimage, and two on the return journey.

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