Tragedy struck aboard an international flight en route to Saudi Arabia on May 8, 2025, as an Indonesian pilgrim, identified as Nyai Nur Fadillah, passed away mid-flight while journeying to perform the sacred Hajj pilgrimage. The 45-year-old woman hailed from Sidoarjo, a town in East Java province, and was part of the SUB 20 group of pilgrims traveling under Indonesia’s official Hajj quota.
According to reports obtained by KIIN360, the deceased boarded Saudia flight SV5323, which took off from Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport at around 7:00 AM local time. The flight was bound for the holy city of Madinah, one of the two major entry points for pilgrims embarking on the annual Hajj rites. Fadillah is said to have succumbed to an illness during the journey, with her death recorded around 6:30 AM Saudi Arabian time—before the aircraft landed.
Hajj mission officials accompanying the group immediately informed the relevant authorities upon landing in Madinah. Coordinated efforts between Indonesian Hajj personnel and Saudi officials ensured all necessary post-mortem and burial procedures were respectfully followed. Her body was laid to rest in Al-Baqi Cemetery, a site revered across the Islamic world. Located adjacent to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, the cemetery is known as the resting place of many companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and other notable Islamic figures.
The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, through its Hajj management task force, expressed heartfelt condolences to the late pilgrim’s family. In an official statement, the ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all Indonesian pilgrims, especially during their transit and stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With over 200,000 Indonesians expected to perform Hajj this year—the largest contingent globally—the ministry said it has bolstered medical teams, spiritual guides, and logistical support to prevent or respond to any emergencies.
Fellow pilgrims joined in prayer for Fadillah upon arrival, recognizing her intention and devotion to complete one of Islam’s most significant obligations. For many Muslims, passing away during the pilgrimage is viewed as a deeply honorable fate, reflecting divine mercy and acceptance. Her demise has not only drawn sympathy but also serves as a solemn reminder of the spiritual magnitude and physical demands of the Hajj journey.
As preparations for the peak Hajj period intensify in both Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, the incident underscores the importance of robust health screenings and spiritual readiness for pilgrims undertaking the once-in-a-lifetime rite.
